Police in the Netherlands are launching an unprecedented campaign to combat fraud, displaying images of 100 suspected con artists on digital billboards, in television commercials and online advertisements. The initiative, dubbed “Game Over?!” aims to both apprehend those currently committing fraud and deter potential future offenders.
The images will be shown at locations including train stations, shopping malls, gas stations, and supermarkets. Initially, the suspects will appear blurred, giving them a two-week window to turn themselves in. If they do not, their photos will be released publicly, allowing for wider recognition.
Authorities say the widespread dissemination of these images is necessary to address the escalating number of fraud cases. In 2025 alone, reports of individuals posing as police officers surged to over 13,000. These fraudsters often target victims by claiming to be law enforcement officials collecting bank cards or jewelry.
Police also report a significantly higher number of incidents involving telephone help desk fraud, where scammers convince victims to share login credentials, often leading to bank account theft.
Significant Financial Impact
Last year, more than 100,000 fraud cases were reported, resulting in an estimated total loss of over 68 million euros. The campaign underscores the growing financial threat posed by these crimes.
The victims are frequently elderly individuals, and the impact on them is profound. “We see people who are afraid to head out alone and won’t answer the door,” said cybercrime expert Yoanne Spoormans. “Some have even moved into assisted living facilities, believing they are no longer able to care for themselves.”
Targeting ‘Runners’ in Criminal Networks
The 100 suspects being publicized are primarily young people acting as “runners” for larger criminal organizations. They often collect bank cards from victims and withdraw cash. According to authorities, these individuals are a crucial link in the broader fraud schemes.
Spoormans explained that many of these young people are vulnerable, potentially struggling with intellectual disabilities or addiction. “Criminal organizations actively recruit these individuals, knowing they are more susceptible to being involved,” she said.
Police are also aware that some of these “runners” are coerced into participating through threats and intimidation. Reports include instances of explosives being placed in mailboxes, even those of family members, and individuals being forced to go into hiding.
The ‘F-Game’
Despite concerns about the severity of publicly identifying these individuals, authorities have received approval from the Public Prosecution Service for each case.
“Even if they are being pressured or threatened, it’s important that we know who these young people are so we can offer them help,” Spoormans said. She hopes the campaign will also deter others from becoming involved in this type of criminal activity.
She emphasized that some of the young people involved are fully aware of their actions, motivated by the prospect of quick money. Among the suspects, defrauding people is known as the ‘F-game,’ which is why police have named the campaign “Game Over.”
In addition to the public campaign, police are pursuing other methods to track down scammers, including undercover operations where officers pose as potential victims to arrest fraudulent individuals at the scene.
Given the nationwide reach of these criminal networks, police believe it is crucial to display the images of the 100 suspects throughout the country. “We’ve seen individuals from one city committing fraud in another,” said Spoormans. “That’s why we’ve chosen to show these images nationwide, in the hope that people will recognize the suspects.”
