A recent report by the Social Consultation on Payments (Maatschappelijk Overleg Betalingsverkeer) indicates that a growing number of adults in the Netherlands are struggling to manage their banking activities independently. The decline in independence is particularly notable in internet banking, where millions encounter difficulties.
Over the past four years, the number of people able to use various banking services without assistance has decreased across almost all services examined. These services include internet banking, making payments at online shops, opening a bank account, activating a bank card, and transferring money.
Several factors contribute to these challenges:
- Lack of Internet Access: Approximately 200,000 people in the Netherlands do not have internet access.
- Sensory Impairments: Some individuals are blind, visually impaired, or hard of hearing.
- Digital Skills: Many people are not digitally proficient or have mild intellectual disabilities.
- Age Group: The largest affected group comprises nearly 3.7 million individuals aged 65 and over, many of whom require assistance from family members or others.
Efforts by the banking sector, such as online lessons, collaborations with support lines like the DigiHulplijn, and free workshops in libraries and community centers, have yet to yield significant improvements. The Dutch Banking Association (NVB) suggests that the full impact of these initiatives may not be visible until they are fully implemented in the coming years.
Additionally, nearly a quarter of adult Dutch citizens cannot independently contact their bank when they have questions about payments or their bank account. This situation can increase vulnerability to fraud, including scams involving criminals posing as bank employees.
Source: NOS News - Millions of Dutch People Cannot Manage All Their Banking Affairs Themselves