File a complaint for scam ad (fake buyer) - THESEE (Online service)

Ministry of the Interior

Under what conditions is it possible to lodge a complaint?

L'advertisement scam is a infringement even if it's the buyer's fault.

As a seller, you can deposit complaint in this online service if:

  • You sent a good or performed a service but the buyer never paid you
  • The buyer has asked you to advance certain fees before the shipment of the goods or the performance of the service. So you have to specify the amount you were charged. It is not necessary that a payment and/or collection has taken place
  • You have never met the buyer (virtual relationship)

If these conditions are not met, you can file a complaint by traveling to the police station or gendarmerie of your choice or by writing to public prosecutor.

Warning  

Only adults can deposit complaint on the THESEE online service. Minors can only perform a signaling.

Your complaint must be as complete as possible so that investigators can identify the perpetrator of the offense. You can complete it in a six-year period from the fact-finding commission. Complaining can be done through THESEE.

What are the consequences of filing a complaint on THESEE?

As soon as your complaint is validated by professionals in this online service, you receive an information notice in your personal space “Service-Public.fr”. This notice gives you information on the follow-up to your complaint, the assistance you can receive (e.g. assistance from a lawyer) and the means to obtain compensation.

You are also informed in case of identification and arrest of the perpetrator.

How to file a complaint on THESEE?

This online service can be used if you are a individual of nationality French or foreign.

You can file a complaint only in your own name and by indicating your identity.

You must authenticate with FranceConnect.

Warning  

Only persons who do not have the possibility to use FranceConnect (example: foreigners tourists) can use a Service-Public.fr account

Go to the online procedure

Verified 05 July 2024 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

For details, please use the practical information sheets :

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