The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets has published research estimating that investment fraud in the Netherlands causes losses of hundreds of millions of euros annually, potentially rising to EUR 750 million. The AFM argues the scale of harm is structurally underestimated compared with what is currently recorded and calls for a more intensive, coordinated response to the growing problem. The research finds investment fraud now almost always starts online, using social media, fake adverts and fraudulent websites that often operate from abroad, and is becoming more professional, digital and international. The AFM also highlights low victim reporting rates as a key driver of underestimation and notes its loss estimate was developed with partners including the Police, FIOD, Fraudehelpdesk, FIU-Nederland and the Dutch Banking Association using national registrations and international comparative material. It argues tackling investment fraud is a shared responsibility across public and private actors, including prioritisation within policy, supervision and criminal enforcement, and points to options such as a central reporting point and coordinated enforcement, alongside greater responsibility for social media platforms and other gatekeepers to prevent misuse of their services.
Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets 2025-12-11
Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets estimates investment fraud losses could reach EUR 750 million a year and urges intensified joint action
The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) reports that investment fraud in the Netherlands results in annual losses potentially reaching EUR 750 million, with harm underestimated due to low victim reporting. The AFM emphasizes the need for a coordinated response involving public and private sectors, including enhanced policy, supervision, and enforcement, and suggests measures such as a central reporting point and increased accountability for social media platforms.