Together against payment fraud

More and more aspects of our lives take place online: shopping, banking, payments… But that also makes us more vulnerable to fraud. On this page, we go deeper into online and mobile security, so you get the right tools to recognise phishing and other forms of payment fraud.

On this page

Together against payment fraud

More and more aspects of our lives take place online: shopping, banking, payments… But that also makes us more vulnerable to fraud. On this page, we go deeper into online and mobile security, so you get the right tools to recognise phishing and other forms of payment fraud.

What you need to know about payment fraud

The scammers

Scammers are rarely lone internet villains working from their basements. More often, they are part of larger criminal networks that use sophisticated methods to commit fraud. Behind a single phone call, message, or fake email, there is usually an entire operation at work: some people gather personal data, others contact the victims, and yet others move the money along complex channels. Many of these networks operate internationally and use professional tools to deceive people. What might seem like a “lone wolf” scam is, in reality, a well-organised group that knows exactly what it is doing.

The victims

Scams nowadays are set up so professionally that virtually anyone can fall victim to them. It is no longer just about vulnerable people; even digitally savvy individuals can be misled. The messages, websites, and phone calls are often so realistic that it is sometimes almost impossible to tell that they are fake. This is partly because scammers often already possess personal data of victims, such as their full name, date of birth, address, or bank details. They have collected or purchased this information from other security breaches. And precisely because these schemes are run by organised criminal groups, they have the time, knowledge, and resources to keep refining their methods.

That’s why it’s so important for all of us to be careful and mindful with our data, browsing habits, and payment behaviour. Simple steps like double-checking details, avoiding links in unexpected messages, and taking a moment to think before acting can make a big difference. Falling for a scam doesn’t mean you’re “stupid” or “naïve” — it’s just well-organised crime. The more alert we are, the less chance they have to succeed.

What we do to protect you

Payconiq by Bancontact

The Payconiq by Bancontact app has been designed with your security as our top priority. It is important to know that our app never transfers money without the user's explicit approval. This approval always goes through the user's bank or via secure app-to-app communication. At no point do you or potential scammers have access to your bank account via our app. The app is just a convenient way to pay, just like using your bank card or a normal bank transfer. 

We’re not alone in this either. We’re part of a strong and reliable ecosystem, together with banks, payment partners, and technical integrators. All of these parties work every day to keep payments safe and secure.

Secure payments

Payments in the app are extra protected. You can only scan QR codes from registered and verified merchants, so you won’t accidentally scan a random code. This is because the app verifies the origin of all payment requests and only processes QR codes created through our certified ecosystem. Payment requests also go through our secure environment, which allows us to track your payments.

We also want you to know exactly what to expect from us:

  • We never call you unexpectedly to ask sensitive information or codes.
  • We never ask you to share personal information by email.
  • We never sell your data to third parties. Data is shared only with essential partners under strict regulatory requirements, where it is minimised and protected. Any data shared in this manner is also fully anonymised.

And if you ever have questions or need reassurance? Our local support team in Brussels is ready to help: personal, reliable, and close to home.

What you can do to protect yourself

Although we continuously invest in the latest technology to combat payment fraud, the human factor plays a crucial role. You should never assume that technology will always protect you against deliberate deception. Cybercriminals often try to circumvent your judgement, not necessarily our systems.

Your vigilance and knowledge are therefore the most effective defence. By being aware of the risks and following a few simple rules, you can make a difference. Here are some essential tips to help you protect yourself and stay financially secure.

A hand holding a phone with a qr code on it

📦 Tips for safe online shopping

☑ Check the web address

Make sure the URL is correct. Scammers often use slight spelling variations, like bol.net or coolblu.be.

☑ ‘S’ stands for secure

Check that the URL begins with https://. A padlock icon next to the address also indicates a secure site.

☑ Check your network

Always use a secure network when shopping. Free public Wi-Fi is convenient but often unsafe. Your mobile network is much safer.

☑ Check the reliability

See if the webshop is on the Becom list of trusted stores or check its Trustpilot rating.

🛒 Tips for Marketplace purchases

☑ Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true

Products priced far below market value are often a red flag.

☑ Use secure payment methods only

Never transfer money to an unknown account. Prefer platform-based or verified payment options.

☑ Ask for extra photos or information

Scammers often use stolen or stock images. A real seller can easily provide additional photos.

☑ Check the seller’s profile

Few reviews, a new account, or suspiciously low activity? Be cautious.

☑ Watch out for shipping requests

Be wary of sellers who request shipping or payment without providing reliable guarantees.

📱 How to spot suspicious messages

☑ Watch for urgency tricks

Messages pressuring you to act immediately (“PAY NOW!”, “RESPOND IMMEDIATELY!”) are often fake.

☑ Don’t click links blindly

If in doubt, type the official website into your browser instead of clicking a link.

☑ Check the sender

A strange number, odd email structure, or spelling mistakes? It’s probably fake.

☑ Never share codes

Your bank or payment app will never ask you to provide verification codes via SMS, phone, or chat.

🌐 How to surf safely online

☑ Keep your smartphone and apps up-to-date

Updates often include important security improvements.

☑ Use two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security method that requires the user to provide two distinct pieces of evidence (typically something you know, like a password, and something you have, like a code) to gain access.

☑ Avoid public computers and Wi-Fi networks

Especially for banking or payments.

☑ Be wary of pop-ups

Don’t click on sudden notifications about “viruses” or “problems”.

💳 How to protect your payment information

☑ Never share bank details via email or SMS

Legitimate organisations will never ask this way.

☑ Use unique passwords

A strong, unique password for each important service greatly reduces vulnerability.

☑ Check your account regularly

This helps you spot anything suspicious quickly.

☑ Use only trusted payment methods

Never transfer money directly to unknown people.

📲 Tips for mobile payments

☑ Always verify the amount and recipient

Take a moment to check the name and amount before confirming.

☑ Use apps you trust

Download payment apps only from official app stores and keep them updated.

☑ Don’t scan random QR codes

Only use QR codes from trusted merchants or people you know. Unexpected QR codes may lead to fraudulent payment pages.

☑ Keep your device secure

Use a PIN, face recognition, or fingerprint. Never let others watch when you confirm a payment.

☑ Never share verification codes

No bank or payment app will ever ask you to forward a code.

🧠 Tips for staying alert

☑ Take your time

Scammers count on you being in a hurry. Taking a moment to pause will help you think more clearly.

☑ If in doubt, check

Contact the company through an official channel. Do not use the link or number you were given.

☑ Ask for advice from someone near you

A quick check by a friend, colleague or family member can prevent a lot of trouble.

☑ Remember: everyone can be deceived

It doesn't say anything about how smart you are – scams are just very professionally made.

Trusted sources for online safety

Want to learn more about online safety or have questions about fraud? In Belgium, these trusted sources are helpful:

By consulting these sites, you stay informed and can protect yourself better against online fraud. Surf, shop, and pay with peace of mind.

Have you fallen victim to online fraud?

If you fall victim to online fraud or your bank details are misused, it is crucial to act quickly.

Step 1: Contact your bank's fraud department immediately: you will find a list of anti-fraud numbers for each bank on the Febelfin website. These numbers are available 24/7. In some cases, you will also need to call Card Stop to block your cards or online banking access.

Step 2: Report the incident to the police as soon as possible. Bring the following information with you:

  • Your bank account number
  • Numbers of the bank cards that have been misused
  • Overview of suspicious transactions (amount, date, time, beneficiary)
  • All information about how the fraud came about (emails, text messages, websites, telephone numbers, social media, etc.)
  • The device on which any malware was installed

After reporting the incident, send a copy of the police report to your bank.