Financial Crime World

French Police Report 7% Surge in Scams in May 2022

According to the latest data from the Service statistique ministériel de la Sécurité intérieure (SSMSI) at the interior ministry, May 2022 saw a 7% increase in reported scams in France compared to the previous month.

Key Findings

  • A total of 36,755 scams were recorded during May 2022.
  • Paris, Hauts-de-Seine, Bouches-du-Rhône, Gironde, Rhône, and Haute-Garonne were the top contributing departments to the upward trend.
  • Hauts-de-Seine and Paris observed a rise of 0.7% and 1.4%, respectively, in scam incidence rates compared to the previous year.

Before the Covid-19 crisis, scam rates had remained relatively steady. However, in 2021, a massive surge of 15% led to an incredible 423,000 reported scams or similar offenses.

Underreporting of Scams

Fewer than one-quarter of scam victims went to report the crime to the police, and even fewer had made official statements. An interior ministry survey from March 2022 (Cadre de vie et sécurité) indicated this underreporting issue.

New Initiatives to Encourage Reporting

A new online reporting tool unveiled by the government might help encourage more victims to come forward and address the underreporting issue.

Despite these efforts, scams persist and take various forms across France. Let’s examine some common scam trends and tactics:

1. Bank Fraud

  • Number of incidents has more than doubled between 2010 and 2018.
  • Fraudsters may acquire account holders’ card numbers or other details during online shopping or banking transactions.
  • Nearly 1.3 million French households fell victim to these scams in 2020.
  • Younger demographics are disproportionately affected.

2. Fraudulent Schemes

  • Misrepresented orders, dishonest advertisements, unprovided services, inaccurate invoices, and paid telephone numbers accounted for 1.2 million people in 2018.

3. Blackmail or Other Traps

  • False requests for help, romantic propositions, and extortion are on the rise.

4. Lost Revenue

  • About one-third of scams result in less than €50 loss, and one in ten led to over €1,000 loss.
  • Three-quarters of scams occur remotely, making identification and punishment challenging.

Avoiding Scams

To avoid falling prey to scams, be wary of communications from unknown sources. Be extra cautious with messages purporting to be from well-known organizations containing inconsistencies or spelling mistakes. Do not click on any links or share your information with individuals you don’t know. If offers appear too good to be true, they likely are. Stay informed on the latest scams in your region and take action to safeguard your personal information and finances. If you encounter a suspected scam, report it to the authorities.