Police warn Belgian travellers to UK of ETA scam
Antwerp police and the Belgian Foreign Affairs ministry have issued a warning about a scam linked to the new UK entry requirements. Since 2 April, Belgian travellers must have both an international passport and an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK, something that criminals are taking advantage of.
According to the police, fake websites are deceiving travellers who search online for terms such as "UK ETA application". These platforms ask for personal information and charge fees far in excess of the official cost of 16 pounds. Victims are often lured in via search engines.
In some cases, the scam continues with follow-up emails asking for more personal information. Many travellers don't realise they've been scammed until it's too late, often losing around 200 euros.
Police are urging travellers to only apply via the official UK ETA app, available from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, or the official UK government website. This includes submitting an ETA application on someone else's behalf.
The UK ETA is a pre-entry requirement for visa-exempt travellers. It allows multiple visits over two years - or until the passport expires - and covers short stays for tourism, business, study, some work or transit. Being granted an ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK.
#FlandersNewsService | © PHOTO BEN FATHERS / AFP
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