A very specific type of scam is "rising in power" in France, reports the Signal-Arnaques sur X account. It's the famous breakdown kit scam, which has made headlines several times in recent years in France. Over the past six months, the number of scams of this type has reportedly exploded in the country, while the.
A free or reduced-price kit
The attack involves offering "a breakdown or road safety kit" at a discounted price to Internet users. The offer takes the form of an advertisement, a message received on social networks, or a spam email. In all cases, the kit is available for the modest sum of a few euros. Hackers usually claim that this is just the shipping cost, as the kit itself is free.
A breakdown kit includes a series of items that are mandatory, or simply useful, for all drivers. Examples include a warning triangle, a reflective vest, a first aid kit, protective gloves, jumper cables, a tow rope, and a survival blanket. Prices vary depending on the items included, and can go as high as 40 euros.
Identity theft
To lull targets' suspicions, hackers will obviously usurp the identity of a known and reputable entity. Most of the time, cybercriminals pretend to be the Ministry of Transport or Vinci Autoroutes, the main motorway concession company in France. The company also sounded the alarm about fake free emergency car kits being offered online last January. On Facebook, the firm states that "fraudulent emails impersonating VINCI Autoroutes are circulating", but that "no data leak has been reported and VINCI Autoroutes has filed a complaint".
If the Internet user decides to click on the email to receive a kit, they will first provide a wealth of personal data through the survey. Then, the victim will be asked to pay the shipping costs, which amount to only 2 or 3 euros. This is when the trap closes.
Fraudulent withdrawals
Using the bank details provided by the Internet user, the hackers will make "regular withdrawals" from the account. Every month, the victim will be several dozen euros deducted. Unknowingly, the user has given the hackers everything they need to orchestrate the charges. This is the famous hidden subscription technique. It involves pushing the Internet user to sign up for an overpriced subscription without their knowledge.
If you fall into this trap, contact your bank quickly to block it. Also take the time to report the fraudulent email or SMS on the website signal-spam.fr. Finally, don't hesitate to file a police report.
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