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Scam Statistics in France
Here are some eye‑opening numbers that show just how serious online fraud has become in France:
- Billions of dollars are lost every year.
- Scams range from fake investment schemes to phishing emails and phone calls.
- Victims aren't just losing money they're losing trust, security, and peace of mind.
Online scams are on the rise in France, but the good news is that authorities are fighting back. In recent years, the French government has made it easier for people to report suspicious activity and has created dedicated police teams to investigate fraud. The goal is simple: protect citizens and stop scammers in their tracks.
The numbers show just how widespread the problem has become. Scams now make up 14% of all reported fraud cases in France, and an incredible 6 out of 10 people say they've been targeted with offers for "alternative investments." These schemes often promise quick profits but end up draining victims' savings.
| Country | Population | Internet Penetration | # of Scams | Scams / 1,000 | Money Lost | Money Lost / Capita | Money Lost / Report |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 65.3M | 92% | 205.0K | 3.14 | $2.10B | $32.15 | $10.24K |
| 2021 | 65.5M | 93% | 240.0K | 3.66 | $2.50B | $38.17 | $10.42K |
| 2022 | 65.8M | 94% | 255.0K | 3.88 | $2.85B | $43.32 | $11.18K |
| 2023 | 66.1M | 95% | 270.0K | 4.08 | $3.20B | $48.41 | $11.85K |
| 2024 | 66.4M | 95% | 285.0K | 4.29 | $3.60B | $54.22 | $12.63K |
| 2025 | 66.7M | 96% | 300.0K | 4.50 | $4.00B | $59.97 | $13.33K |
The figures in the table will differ strongly per year as various sources have been used, pending on availability.
Here's a structured draft of France, highlighting common scams and how victims can report them or seek help.
Common Scams
- Alternative investment scams (crypto, fake bonds)
- Phishing emails and SMS impersonating banks or La Poste
- Romance scams and fake online marketplaces
- Lottery and inheritance scams ScamAlerts.com
Reporting Mechanisms
- DGCCRF (Direction générale de la concurrence, de la consommation et de la répression des fraudes) – national fraud control authority T&H Consulting
- SignalConso platform – allows consumers to report scams or fraudulent business practices online SignalConso
- Police/Gendarmerie – for criminal complaints
