Recognizing absenteeism fraud: 7 signs of unjustified sick leave reporting
Absenteeism fraud is one of the fastest-growing problems for Dutch employers. An employee who calls in sick but is meanwhile performing paid work, is on vacation, or is working for themselves can quickly cost you money. €500 to €1,500 per day regarding continued payment of wages, replacement, and legal risks. In this article, you will read what absenteeism fraud entails, which signs indicate abuse, and how you, as an employer, can act lawfully and effectively.
What is absenteeism fraud?
Absenteeism fraud occurs when an employee reports sick without actually being incapacitated for work, or deliberately exaggerates their symptoms. There are three common forms:
- Simulation – The employee pretends to be sick, when that is not the case.
- Aggravation – The employee exaggerates existing complaints to stay home longer.
- Abuse during reintegration – The employee performs paid work elsewhere without the employer's permission.
The total damage per case of fraud can amount to tens of thousands of euros, including continued payment of wages, increased workload for colleagues, and the costs of legal proceedings.
What are you allowed to do as an employer?
Employers may not make a medical judgment — that is reserved for the company doctor. However, in the event of a justified suspicion of absenteeism fraud, you do indeed have tools at your disposal. According to the Central government guidelines regarding sickness absence Employers may collect leads and engage a recognized detective agency.
Permitted measures in case of suspected fraud are observing behavior in public spaces, documenting public social media posts that contradict the sick leave notification, and engaging a certified private investigation agency with a POB license.
Every study must proportional and subsidiary are: not going further than necessary, and only after milder measures have been used.
7 signs that may indicate absenteeism fraud
1. Active presence on social media during illness
Photos of sports activities, trips, or parties on Instagram or Facebook, while the employee is reported as fully incapacitated for work, are a clear warning signal that justifies further investigation.
2. Sick leave notifications at recurring, suspicious times
Illness that invariably begins on a Monday, immediately after a public holiday, or shortly after a denied vacation request indicates patterned behavior.
3. Reports from colleagues or customers
Signals such as “he is working illegally elsewhere” or “she runs her own business” are valuable tips that must be taken seriously and belong in the file.
4. Unavailability to employer or occupational health physician
Systematically avoiding contact, refusing a home visit, or failing to keep appointments with the company doctor are strong indications that the employee has something to hide.
5. Visible activity inconsistent with the clinical picture
An employee with severe back problems who still goes grocery shopping, does odd jobs, or travels but refuses to reintegrate exhibits inconsistent behavior that requires an explanation.
6. Paid work during sick leave
Performing odd jobs, working in the hospitality industry, or managing a webshop without the employer's permission is a direct form of absenteeism fraud with direct legal consequences.
7. Vague or fluctuating clinical picture without medical substantiation
Frequent sick leave with constantly changing, non-specific complaints may indicate simulation or exaggeration, especially when the occupational physician cannot establish a clear picture.
Case study: car mechanic with back problems gave diving lessons abroad
A car mechanic at a Dutch garage reported sick for an extended period due to back problems. Through an anonymous tip, the employer learned that the employee was giving daily diving lessons to tourists abroad. Strongwood set up a observational research stepped in, documented the behavior on photo and video, and drew up a legally substantiated report. The result was summary dismissal without further payment of wages, supported by the opinion of the company doctor.
How does Strongwood help with absenteeism fraud?
Strongwood is a certified private investigation agency with offices in the Netherlands and abroad. We offer employers a comprehensive, legally sound approach to suspected unjustified sick leave.
- Observational study – Discreet and professional behavioral research in public spaces.
- Digital forensic analysis – Research of social media, metadata, and digital communication.
- Legally valid reports – Useful for the company doctor, your legal advisor, and the judge.
- Emergency aid – Deployable within 24 hours in case of urgent suspicions.
- GDPR-proof working method – Fully compliant with privacy legislation and POB guidelines.
What benefits does an investigation offer you?
A timely absenteeism investigation stops unjustified continued wage payments and prevents the situation from escalating further. You gain legal certainty through a strong case file that prevents proceedings and claims. Colleagues feel heard and taken seriously, which restores team trust. And within a few days, you have clarity regarding the actual situation.
Conclusion: early intervention against absenteeism fraud always pays off
Absenteeism fraud is a serious and growing problem for employers in the Netherlands. Ignoring warning signs costs you not only money but also support within your team. The sooner you act, the greater the chance of usable evidence and the more limited the damage.
Do you suspect absenteeism fraud within your organization? Request our free, no-obligation risk scan via chat or via www.strongwood.nl/contact. One of our experts will contact you within one business day.
