Scam in NetherlandsTheft
Bicycle theft in Netherlands
How it works
A thief takes a parked bicycle.
Warning signs
- The bicycle is left unlocked.
- The bicycle is not secured to a fixed object.
How to avoid it
- Lock the bicycle whenever you leave it.
- Secure it to a fixed object where permitted.
- Follow the rental company's locking and parking instructions.
- Keep a photo and identifying details of the bicycle.
If it happens to you
Report the theft to police. If it is a rental, tell the rental company and provide the report details.
- Move to a safe public place. Avoid chasing a thief or arguing with someone who threatens you.
- If there is immediate danger or an urgent injury, call 112 and say whether you need police, an ambulance or firefighters.
- Block missing payment cards through your card issuer. Lock a stolen phone remotely if possible.
- Save receipts, messages, payment records and useful details, such as a taxi number. Write down what happened, where and when.
- Report theft or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report reference and contact your insurer if relevant.
- Contact the taxi company or seller about a dispute. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement help.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/Amsterdam2022Finished Copenhagen to Amsterdam cycle tripA cyclist reports having their bicycle stolen within 12 hours of reaching Amsterdam after a 1,100-kilometre tour.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/Amsterdam2024Be careful where you park your carA visitor reports a bicycle stolen from their car after its window was broken in a parking lot equipped with cameras and barriers.Read on Reddit
- Government adviceWat kan ik doen als mijn fiets is gestolen? | Rijksoverheid.nlThe Dutch government explains bicycle-theft reporting and advises checking whether a missing bicycle was removed by the municipality.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the bicycle theft scam in Netherlands?
A thief takes a parked bicycle.
How can I spot it early?
The bicycle is left unlocked. The bicycle is not secured to a fixed object.
How do I avoid bicycle theft in Netherlands?
Lock the bicycle whenever you leave it. Secure it to a fixed object where permitted. Follow the rental company's locking and parking instructions. Keep a photo and identifying details of the bicycle.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Report the theft to police. If it is a rental, tell the rental company and provide the report details.
Where in Netherlands does this happen?
Large cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague.
How common is this scam in Netherlands?
Common. The Netherlands is generally safe, but taxi scams are common. Visitors should also watch for pickpockets, baggage theft and bicycle theft, especially in large cities and busy tourist areas.
Are there similar scams in Netherlands?
Yes: pickpocketing, baggage theft.
Who can I report it to?
Police (Politie): report theft or suspected fraud and provide evidence. Ask for a report reference. Call 112 only when there is an emergency. Taxi company: complain using the taxi number, journey details, receipt and amount charged. Record the number if a driver refuses a short ride. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or contact number to freeze missing cards and report unauthorised charges. Ask whether a disputed payment can be challenged. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen. Most embassies are in The Hague. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep the police reference, receipts and a list of missing items. Bicycle rental company: tell the company promptly if its bicycle is stolen. Follow its reporting instructions and provide police report details.
What number do I call in an emergency in Netherlands?
Police, ambulance and fire emergencies: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck