Social networks have become the playground for a new scam which is growing in France. Behind its innocuous appearance lies in reality an illegal practice. The latter may also have serious consequences for those affected.
A terrible scam
The cardboard scam consists of fraudulently declaring a package as lost or stolen after having actually received it. This stratagem is based on the commercial policies adopted by many large online brands.
Most offer attractive guarantees to attract their customers. They promise rapid reimbursement, a return of an item not received or even a return within 14 days in case of dissatisfaction.
Although these practices were created to protect consumers, be aware that they are subject to misuse by ill-intentioned individuals. In this type of fraud, the scammer places an order on a platform.
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He then receives the package, but declares that he never received it. Some brands, such as Amazon or Rakuten, do not carry out systematic checks before refund or ship a new item.
So this simply creates an opportunity for scams. Fraudsters can then keep the product received for free or resell it in new condition. Please note that social networks amplify this practice by making it visible and accessible to a wide audience.
Some anonymous users share their “tips” to circumvent the rules and benefit from fraudulent reimbursements. There is advice on the phrases to use when dealing with customer service, or even on the most profitable products to order.
And this, like electronic devices, phones, game consoles or laptops, which are easily resold. These publications trivialize the scam. They give the impression that this theft remains without consequences.
-Arrangements to take
On the other hand, this impression is misleading. And for good reason, know that victim companies are investing more and more in systems to detect these frauds. The authorities, too, are closely interested in these practices.
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It must be said that they are theft and scam. Although it seems easy to carry out, this fraud exposes you to serious legal risks. French law remains very clear on the subject. It is a criminal offense to report a package as lost or stolen when it has been received.
This practice remains punishable by severe penalties. The persons concerned risk a fine which can reach 375,000 euros. But that’s not all. They also risk a five-year prison sentence.
Authorities encourage businesses to work with them to identify fraudsters. Some platforms use advanced tools to analyze suspicious behavior, such as repeated or inconsistent complaints.
If suspected, sellers can file a complaint and provide evidence to law enforcement. For honest consumers, vigilance remains essential. If a relative or acquaintance suggests that you participate in such a scam, they she needs to be reminded of what she is risking.
You must also report fraudulent content posted on social networks. This will therefore limit their spread.
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