Abstract: Scores are numerical ratings used to predict or steer people's behaviour. Traditionally, people have not only received scores on their educational achievements (grades) but also on their creditworthiness. The current spread of digital technologies is broadening the possibilities for assessing and rating individuals. This entails both novel risks and opportunities for scored individuals. These opportunities, however, can only be fully realized when society's various legitimate expectations are met. It is then that consumers will accept and benefit from scoring systems. These expectations will include simple and effective ways for individuals to appeal their score. Protected characteristics (such as gender) may not be used as a basis for unwarranted discrimination, be it directly or indirectly. When scores are calculated for the purpose of making predictions, the quality of the criteria applied and the reliability of the predictions must be demonstrated. Predictions need to adhere to the objective of the scoring system concerned, and scores should not be applied to different objectives. Above all, scoring systems must be comprehensible to those who are scored.