Fake delivery driver scam spreads across France: how the fraud works and what to do
Victims are tricked into handing over their bank cards under the pretext of paying a small delivery charge
Residents should treat any doorstep request for payment as suspicious, even if they are genuinely expecting a parcel
Daniela Vazquez/Shutterstock
A new scam involving fake delivery drivers in which victims are tricked into handing over their bank cards is spreading across several French departments, leading the gendarmerie to issue repeated warnings.
How the scam works
The method is simple and consistent. An individual arrives at the door with a parcel and claims that an additional fee is due before it can be handed over. The amount is minor – often 50 centimes – and the scammer presents a portable card reader.
As soon as the resident inserts their card and PIN number, the fraudster seizes it and leaves. The stolen card is then used immediately for cash withdrawals or online purchases. Victims only realise what has happened once the thief has already disappeared.
In some cases, particularly in Côte-d’Or, the scammer has worn a badge or logo resembling La Poste to make the approach more convincing.
Departments affected
The first confirmed incidents were recorded in Haute-Loire, where several residents of Yssingeaux reported the fraud on September 16 and 17.
Since then, the same technique has been identified in neighbouring departments of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté. Cases have been reported in Côte-d’Or, Jura, Saône-et-Loire and Yonne.
Investigations are under way, but officers warn that copycat attempts are likely because the tactic is easy to reproduce and requires little preparation.
Police advice
The gendarmerie stress that no legitimate courier asks for small cash or card payments at the door. Delivery fees are normally paid in advance at the time of ordering.
To avoid becoming a victim, officers recommend:
Do not hand over your bank card or reveal your PIN code.
If asked to pay at the door, refuse and contact the courier company directly.
Ask for identification if you have doubts.
In case of theft, call 17 immediately and notify your bank to block the card.
Wider pattern of scams
This alert follows other warnings about fraud currently circulating in France. Recent examples include fake firewood offers ahead of winter, fraudulent home visits from fake agents of electricity company Enedis, and a scam designed to trick clients of mobile phone company Free prize into giving up their bank details.
While the details differ, investigators note that the principle is the same: create a situation that seems urgent or plausible, and then exploit the victim’s trust to obtain money or sensitive information.
Stay vigilant
Officers say the key defence is awareness. The use of a very small fee - less than one euro - is deliberate, intended to make the request appear harmless. But residents should treat any doorstep request for payment as suspicious, even if they are genuinely expecting a parcel.
By refusing to pay and reporting the incident, potential victims not only protect themselves but also help the authorities track those responsible.
The gendarmerie is also encouraging residents to share the warning with neighbours and family members, especially those who may be more vulnerable to a convincing caller at the door.
