Fraud, doctors, taxes: round up of practical articles from France

New scam warning and insurance firm issues

We look at a computer scam which has affected hundreds in France, involving fraudsters convincing people their computer has been infected with a virus.

They offer to remove it for a price, but of course there is no issue with the computer and costs victims hundreds of euros.

Another article highlights the fraudulent practice of American insurance firm ‘Zebrance’, who sold unauthorised car insurance in France, leaving thousands of drivers without valid insurance.

Read more: Warning as ‘black computer screen’ scam targets people in France

Read more: Drivers left uninsured in France after promoted firm found to be fake

France’s CFE business tax

This article reviews France’s often confusing cotisation foncière des entreprises (CFE) tax which is levied on local businesses and self-employed people.

We look at who is eligible to pay the tax, how it is paid, and the various thresholds of the tax.

A number of exemptions and reductions do exist for certain workers; we review the rules of these.

You can also read our other main explainer from this week regarding one of France’s main property taxes (taxe d’habitation).

Read more: Explainer: who pays France’s CFE business tax and what exemptions?

Read more: Explainer: France’s taxe d’habitation property tax

Cars recalled over fire risk

Five car models from the Renault and Dacia brands have been recalled over a potential manufacturing fault which can increase the risk of fire.

The cars were sold in the first half of 2023 and anyone who has purchased one of the vehicles listed should contact the dealership from which they bought the car.

Read more: Renault and Dacia recall five car models in France over fire risk

Seeing a doctor who is not your GP

This article from our ‘How to’ series looks at how to get a doctor’s appointment if you are unable to find a local GP (médecin traitant), a problem many encounter in France’s so-called medical deserts.

We explain how you can find a doctor for a general appointment, an emergency, and how the fees and reimbursements will work.

Read more: How to see a doctor if you cannot sign up with GP in France

The many uses of commissaires de justice

This final article covers the various tasks France’s commissaires de justice can help you with.

Ranging from meditation with neighbours to debt recovery they can help in a range of issues.

As experts, they can also provide assistance in legal areas, helping you establish ownership of intellectual property rights and to know your rights during property renovations.

Read more: 13 things French ‘commissaires de justice’ do apart from collect debts