Is this letter or text really from the administration?
In short
Scammers imitate public bodies (unpaid fine, tax refund, health card renewal, CAF…) to steal your bank details or log-in details.
Deadlines to check
- A message that rushes you (« last chance », « within 24 hours ») and contains a payment link is a warning sign.
- Real procedures are done on official websites, by typing the address yourself (caf.fr, impots.gouv.fr, ameli.fr, amendes.gouv.fr, service-public.gouv.fr).
What to do
- Do not click the link; log in to your personal account by typing the address yourself and check whether there really is a message.
- Never give sensitive information (codes, full bank details) by message or phone.
- Report fraudulent text messages by forwarding them to 33700, and emails on Signal Spam.
- If you gave your bank details: call your bank immediately.
Watch out: Info Escroqueries (Ministry of the Interior): 0 805 805 817 (free call).
Sources and official links
Checked on 11 October 2026 against the official sources above. Rules can change: the deadlines written on your letter take priority.
General information, not legal advice. This guide explains a type of letter; it does not replace advice from a professional on your situation. Free help: France services, point-justice. Read the disclaimer.