Belgian consumers lost over €23.4 million due to crypto scams and WhatsApp fraud in the second half of 2025, according to the Financial Services and Markets Authority.
The rise in scams highlights growing vulnerabilities and the need for strengthened regulatory measures as financial fraud incidents have increased significantly compared to previous years.
Belgian consumers lost over €23.4 million to scams involving crypto and WhatsApp.
Reports from the FSMA highlight extensive fraud activities in late 2025, with warnings against 240 fraudulent entities.
€23.4 Million Lost to Belgian Crypto and WhatsApp Scams
Belgian consumers lost over €23.4 million to scams involving crypto and WhatsApp. Reports from the FSMA highlight extensive fraud activities in late 2025.
The FSMA issued warnings against 240 fraudulent entities. Impersonators used stolen bank and influencer logos to deceive consumers. Actions taken include blacklisting scam firms.
Fake Crypto Investments Result in €10.5 Million in Losses
The scams impacted Belgian consumers, with €10.5 million lost to fake crypto investments. WhatsApp scams caused €9.5 million in losses, affecting Dutch-speaking men aged 50-69.
Regulatory actions led to blacklisted platforms, influencing financial outcomes and potentially prompting regulatory tightening in the region. Historical data indicates a 20% annual increase in fraud reports. FSMA Report.
FSMA Reports Annual Rise in Crypto Fraud Since 2017
FSMA notes fraud reports have increased annually since 2017, with crypto scams as the most common. This trend mirrors past warnings and efforts to curb such fraudulent activities.
Experts from Kanalcoin suggest further tightening of regulations. Predictions point to continued growth in fraud unless intervention measures are increasingly enforced. “The FSMA has issued warnings against 240 fraudulent entities and 316 websites in 2025, emphasizing the rise in crypto-related scams and their effect on Belgian consumers.”
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