Authorities warn: Scammers in pest control are deceiving residents of the Netherlands and stealing thousands of euros.
Residents of the Netherlands are losing thousands of euros due to fake pest control companies that charge exorbitant fees, use illegal or controversial methods, and then disappear, leaving homes infested with mice and rats without a solution, according to an investigation by RTL.
The victims reported similar experiences. In Amsterdam, a woman named Suzy paid over 1,000 euros to control the rats, while an elderly woman paid 1,100 euros after being pressured to accept expensive procedures that failed to solve the problem. In both cases, the infestations continued and the workers disappeared without a trace.
Fraud often begins when frightened residents seek help online. Scammers run websites that look professional, equipped with stock photos, fake five-star reviews, and claims of testimonials or media appearances. All of these claims are false, and scammers often clone websites under different names to avoid detection.
As soon as they enter homes, scammers pressure residents to buy expensive sticky traps. These traps, which cost less than one euro in stores, are sold for about 80 euros each, and they raise significant controversy due to the suffering they cause to animals. Authorities also warn that their use is illegal in some European countries and can lead to fines from the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA).
Inspectors say that these scammers operate widely across the country, quickly appearing in Google search results and reaching homes swiftly. They use unsafe methods, including placing poison in areas where children are present. Authorities urge residents to verify company registrations, avoid high-pressure offers, and report any suspicious activity to the police, banks, and relevant regulatory bodies.