France faces surge in vehicle registration and SIM card fraud

France is facing a significant rise in digital fraud, specifically targeting vehicle registration processes and mobile phone services. Authorities and the Cour des comptes have raised alarms regarding vehicle registration scams, where fraudsters use fake administrative websites, ghost companies, and phishing to exploit the digitalization of these services. These scams can lead to massive financial losses and identity theft.

Simultaneously, a widespread SIM card scam is affecting a large portion of the French population. This method typically begins with a fraudulent SMS appearing to come from a mobile operator, claiming a new SIM card is available. Victims are directed to fake websites to enter credentials, allowing criminals to hijack phone lines and incur massive charges. Experts advise users to never click on links in unsolicited messages and to verify requests directly through official operator accounts.