With the rise of online commerce and digital trading, Internet scams have unfortunately become a common occurrence. Whether you've fallen victim to phishing, a fake e-commerce site, or a banking scam, it's essential to know how to react to limit the damage and prevent others from falling into the same trap.
1. Identify the type of scam you've fallen victim to
Before reporting a scam, it's important to understand the type of scam you've encountered, as the steps to take may vary depending on the case.
- Phishing : You receive an email or SMS that seems to come from a reliable source (bank, administration, shopping site), but is actually an attempt to collect sensitive information.
- Fake online sales site: A website imitates an e-tailer or offers products at overly attractive prices, but orders are never honored.
- Banking scam: A bogus bank advisor calls you to obtain account information or credit card details.
- Social networking scams: Fake profiles, ads or sweepstakes designed to collect your information or entice you to make a payment.
Also read : 5 essential tips to protect your online payments in 2025.
2. Gather evidence of the scam
Before reporting a scam, remember to collect all the relevant information and evidence. This will facilitate the processing of your report.
- Screenshots of e-mails, SMS messages or suspicious messages received.
- URLs of fraudulent sites or suspicious pages.
- Exchange history (e-mails, online discussions).
- Amounts and transaction details if you have made a payment.
This evidence will help authorities and reporting platforms to analyze the case more quickly and take action.
3. Report the scam to Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr
Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr is the official French government portal dedicated to helping victims of cybermalveillance. Here you can report an Internet scam.
How to do it :
- Acces to www.cybermalveillance.gouv.fr and click on “Report an incident".
- Describe the scam in as much detail as possible.
- Attach proof if possible (screenshots, URLs, etc.).
4. File a complaint with the police
If the scam has caused you financial harm, or if you have concerns about your safety, it's advisable to file a complaint.
How and where to file a complaint?
- Where and how to lodge a complaint At a police station or gendarmerie: Bring evidence and documents relating to the scam (screenshots, e-mails, bank statements).
Filing a complaint opens an investigation and can help track down those responsible for the scam, especially if several people have fallen victim to the same scam.
5. Contact your bank to limit damage
If you have given out your bank details or made a payment to a fraudulent site, contact your bank immediately.
Measures the bank can take :
- Cancellation or opposition of current payments.
- Block your credit card to prevent further transactions.
- Refund request depending on the circumstances and your bank.
Some banks offer fraud protection, so check your recourse options with your bank advisor.
6. Report the scam to the relevant platforms
If the scam took place on a specific website or platform, report it directly to them. Large platforms often have a dedicated fraud department.
- Amazon, eBay and other online retailers: These sites have procedures for reporting suspicious sellers or fraudulent products.
- Social networks (Facebook, Instagram): Report fraudulent accounts using the platform's built-in reporting tool.
- Messaging applications (WhatsApp, Telegram): Report suspicious messages directly via the application.
By reporting the scam, you help the platform identify suspicious accounts and protect other users.
Also read : How to report an Internet scam?
7. Prevent and protect your online accounts
To limit the risk of future scams, here are a few preventive measures to take:
- Change your passwords for sensitive accounts (email, social networks, online banking).
- Enable two-factor authentication on platforms where it is available.
- Install antivirus software and update it regularly to protect your computer.
- Beware of e-mails or messages asking for personal or banking information.
Also read : What is a secure password? How to create and remember one ?
When faced with an Internet scam, reacting quickly is essential to limit the damage and prevent other users from being tricked. By following these steps - identifying the scam, gathering evidence, reporting the incident to Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr, and lodging a complaint if necessary - you can contribute to a safer Internet. Remain vigilant, and don't hesitate to share these tips with others!
FAQ - How do I report an Internet scam?
Reporting a scam helps protect other Internet users from fraudsters. It also helps authorities identify those responsible, limit the spread of scams and strengthen online security.
You can report a scam:
- In France : on the plateform Internet-Signalement.gouv.fr to notify the authorities.
- Auprès de votre banque : si vous avez été victime d’un paiement frauduleux.
- On the platform used: such as an e-commerce site, a social network or a marketplace (Amazon, eBay, etc.).
Contact your bank immediately to block your card or account.
File a complaint with your local police station.
Monitor your bank statements for suspicious transactions.
To facilitate the processing of your report, please have the following information ready:
- Screenshots of the scam (emails, messages, websites).
- The URL or contact details of the fraudster.
- A detailed description of what happened.
- Any proof of payment or communication with the swindler.
It depends on the situation:
- If you paid by credit card, you can request a chargeback from your bank.
- For payments made via platforms such as PayPal, open a dispute to contest the transaction.
- In some cases, your credit card insurance may cover losses.
- Report the situation immediately to the CNIL (Commission nationale de l'informatique et des libertés).
- Monitor any suspicious activity related to your accounts or personal data.
- Change your passwords for associated accounts.