File a complaint for a scam ad (fake seller) - THESEE (Online service)
Ministry of the Interior
What is the classified ad scam?
The classified ad scam is a infringement.
It is, for a malicious individual (person physics or morality), to post an offer to sell a property (e.g. household goods, clothing, vehicles, etc.) when he knows that the property does not exist or does not comply with the advertisement.
The fake seller is liable even if he uses a website serving as an intermediary between people (example: Leboncoin, Ebay, Vinted, etc.)
Under what conditions is it possible to lodge a complaint?
You can drop off complaint in this online service if:
- You have never received your order and are unable to contact the seller
- You've never met the perpetrator. Relationship must be virtual
- The seller asked you for money. So you have to specify the amount you were charged. Nevertheless, it is not necessary for a payment and/or a collection to have taken place
If these 3 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
Verified 05 July 2024 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)
For details, please use the practical information sheets :
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