This issue is particularly pronounced in Anderlecht, where the perception of fewer checks has led to a 'suction effect,' encouraging individuals to rent fake addresses for approximately 250 to 300 euros per month.

People from various regions, including Dilbeek and Aachen, have expressed their need for a Belgian address to qualify for unemployment benefits or local social services.

The investigation found that the social services department in Anderlecht frequently approves allowances for ineligible claimants, with social workers reporting inadequate verification processes.

Social workers in the area have noted that many applicants misrepresent their living situations, with some couples falsely claiming to live alone to secure higher benefits.

One individual highlighted that having a different address is advantageous for accessing local social services, especially in Brussels, where checks are perceived to be less stringent than in Flanders.

Pano's advertisement for a rental address in Anderlecht received an overwhelming response, with many individuals openly stating their intention to use the address for benefit applications.

Reporters posing as landlords in Anderlecht attracted significant interest from individuals seeking to rent addresses solely for the purpose of applying for benefits.

These fake addresses are primarily utilized to gain access to the minimum subsistence allowance, commonly referred to as the 'living wage' in Belgium.

Amidst this backdrop, social workers in Anderlecht are overwhelmed, with each managing around 200 cases, resulting in long waiting times and pressure to approve claims.

An investigation by VRT's Pano has uncovered the widespread availability of fake addresses on Belgian social media, which are being used to apply for social service benefits.