adApr 8, 2026, 09:30

Every Dutch citizen needs a ‘digital emergency kit’, says State Secretary: ‘Do you have your medication on paper?’

Dutch State Secretary Willemijn Aerdts is urging citizens to prepare a "digital emergency kit" containing physical copies of essential information like phone numbers and medical records. The recommendation aims to ensure people can sustain themselves for 72 hours in the event of a widespread internet outage caused by a foreign cyberattack.

Politics Economy Technology Lifestyle Netherlands World

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by ad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

ETIAS travel authorization not yet mandatory, but fake websites are already offering them

Authorities warn that over 150 fraudulent websites are currently offering fake ETIAS travel authorizations, despite the official system not yet being active. Travelers are advised that when the program launches in 2027, they should only use the designated official European Union website to avoid financial scams and data theft.

EU selects 46 raw materials projects to reduce dependence on China

The European Commission has launched 46 projects across sixteen countries to reduce reliance on China for vital raw materials like lithium and copper. These initiatives, supported by prioritized permits and funding assistance, aim to significantly boost domestic processing and recycling capacity by 2030.

Pieter (64) could no longer afford high rent and ended up on the street: I was just surviving

After suffering a series of financial setbacks, 64-year-old Pieter Willems lost his home and was forced to live on the streets. He is now joining a protest in Amsterdam to raise awareness about the worsening housing crisis and the vulnerability of those facing homelessness.

Electric cars are driving further into Europe, but watch out for hidden costs in France

Dutch electric vehicle drivers are increasingly traveling further across Europe, but the ANWB warns that hidden costs like blocking fees remain a problem in countries such as France. Drivers are advised to check tariff details in charging apps to avoid significant unexpected charges for staying connected to a station after a battery is full.

Cabinet plans to require homeowners to install hybrid heat pumps starting in 2029

Beginning in 2029, homeowners in the Netherlands must install hybrid heat pumps instead of gas-fired boilers when replacing their heating systems. The government plans to exempt apartments and monuments, while a decision on future subsidies for these costly installations is expected by 2027.