What is confirmed
The French finance ministry describes a common pattern: a fake dating or social profile, trust built over time, then a request for money for a supposed emergency.
France's cyber assistance service updated its guidance on 15 September and advises ending contact, preserving evidence, contacting the bank and filing a report.
What it means
A video call or shared document does not remove the need to verify identity; visual material can be reused or fabricated.
Shame and pressure to keep the relationship secret often delay asking for help; responsibility lies with the scammer.
What to do
Do not send more money for another emergency or supposed recovery service; block and report the profile.
Gather messages, profiles, receipts and transfer references before contacting the bank and authorities.
Use the related SecurCheck tool, then confirm important decisions with an official source.
