Online Scams & Fraud in Sweden
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.
- Swedish Consumer Agency (Konsumentverket)- Check here for consumer-related scams. They also offer tips and guidance to consumers.
- Finansinspektionen- You can check for investment scams as well as financial-related scams here.
Scam News From Sweden
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