Online Scams & Fraud in Sweden

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June 28, 2023

Online scams and fraud have become a significant concern in Sweden, with a rising number of incidents reported in recent years. In fact, these types of crimes now account for approximately two-thirds of all fraud cases reported in the country. Furthermore, online scams represent around 13% of all reported crimes, highlighting the growing impact of this digital menace. 

As technology advances and more people engage in online activities, criminals have adapted their tactics to exploit unsuspecting individuals through various fraudulent schemes. Payment card fraud and identity fraud are some of the most common online scams in Sweden.

Join us on this journey as we reveal where you can report scams in Sweden, how to report online scams, and where you can get victim support.

Scam Statistics in Sweden

The key statistics on online fraud in Sweden, according to the Global Anti Scam Alliance

  2018 2019 2020 2021
Population 10.2 million 10.3 million 10.3 Million 10.4 million
Internet Penetration 94% 96% 93% 92%
# of Scams    155,000 145,333 131,254
Scams / 1,000   15 14 12.6
Money Lost     € 179 million € 457 Million
Money Lost / Capita     € 17,34 € 43.8
Money Lost / Report     € 1,235 € 3,481

The figures in the table will differ strongly per year as various sources have been used, pending on availability.

Where Can I Report a Scam in Sweden?

  • The Swedish police (Polisen)- Report online scams and fraud to the police at their offices, via email, or online. You can also call 114 14 and if the crime is in progress, the general alarm number is 112.
  • Swedish Consumer Agency (Konsumentverket)- File a complaint against any business or individual with unfair business practices such as misleading advertising, incorrect price information, and more.

 

How to Report a Scam in Sweden

Reporting a scam is crucial. At the moment, only 7% of all scams are reported. As a result, only 0.05% of all cybercriminals are caught. Reporting online fraud is not only essential if you want to try and get your money back. It is also needed to help law enforcement fight scammers better.

  • Gather info: Collect all information about the suspected fraud including the name, telephone, key web pages, emails, IP address, and any other information relevant. This is needed to file a complete report.
  • Report the incident: Always report to your local law enforcement and note the file number they might provide for your fraud report for future reference.
  • Stop the Money: Report the incident to the financial institution that transferred the money such as your bank, Paypal, credit card company, or the Internet payment service provider.
  • Protect yourself: Scammers often contact you again. Sometimes with the same scam. Sometimes to help you “recover your money”. Consider changing your email address/phone number. Also, install the ScamAdviser browser extension to warn you of scams.

Our article “How and Where to Report a Scam” gives you more detail and tips on how you can best report online fraud.

Scam Victim Support in Sweden

The Crime Victim Compensation and Support Authority (Brottsoffermyndigheten)- They not only provide support for victims of crime but also compensation. Damages paid by the offender, insurance payouts, and state-funded compensation for criminal injuries are the three types of compensation. You can reach out at 090–70 82 00 or online.

How to Check for a Scam in Sweden

Of course, you can always check for scams on ScamAdviser.com. However, there are several other sources where you can check if a website is registered as a company and if it can offer financial, gambling, or other regulated services as well.

Scam News From Sweden

Image source: unsplash.com

 

Report a Scam!

Have you fallen for a hoax, bought a fake product? Report the site and warn others!

Help & Info

Top Safety Picks

Your Go-To Tools for Online Safety
Disclaimer: Some of the links here are affiliate links. If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

  1. ScamAdviser App - iOS : Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on iOS
  2. ScamAdviser App - Android : Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on Android.
  3. NordVPN : NordVPN keeps your connection private and secure whether you are at home, traveling, or streaming from another country. It protects your data, blocks unwanted ads and trackers, and helps you access your paid subscriptions anywhere. Try it Today!
  4. Incogni : Incogni automatically removes your personal data from data brokers that trade in personal information online, helping reduce scam and identity theft risks without the hassle of manual opt-outs. Reclaim your privacy now!

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