In France, scams related to fake bank advisors are on the rise, according to recent data from the Bank of France. These frauds represent a major challenge for consumers and require increased vigilance. Discover how these scams are developing and the measures put in place to counter them.
The essentials to remember
- Fraud by manipulation reached 516 million euros in 2025, according to the OSMP
- 41.6% of the total amount of scriptural fraud in France is linked to this type of scam
- Cybercriminals mainly target online transfers, representing 376 million euros in losses
Imagine an innocuous call from your bank. You answer, and on the other end of the line, a reassuring voice informs you that suspicious payments have been detected. You are guided to secure your account, but in reality, you have just fallen into a well-crafted scam. Welcome to the world of fake bank advisors, a growing threat fueled by increasingly sophisticated manipulation techniques.
Fraud by manipulation: 516 million euros stolen in 2025
The latest report from the Observatory for the Security of Payment Means (OSMP) reveals alarming figures regarding fraud by manipulation. Scammers managed to steal 516 million euros from French households in 2025, marking a 34% increase compared to the previous year. This form of fraud now represents 41.6% of the total amount of scriptural fraud in France, encompassing all payment method hacks, excluding cash.
Cybercriminals have adapted to the improvement of bank card security systems. Their new target: online transfers. In 2025, these fraudulent operations caused 376 million euros in losses. The method is clever: scammers bypass computer security systems to directly manipulate victims.
A well-oiled scheme: when the scammer becomes an advisor
The scenario is skillfully designed. The scammer calls their victim, presenting themselves as a bank advisor. They claim to have detected suspicious payments and guide the person to supposedly block them. In reality, the victim authorizes a transfer to the scammer’s account. This technique relies on the exploitation of personal data stolen during various information leaks.
Scammers then use phishing SMS and websites imitating those of banks to perfect their trap. Thanks to artificial intelligence, they automate targeting and improve the credibility of their scenarios. Banks and the OSMP are working together to experiment with the automatic blocking of sensitive numbers and are considering the creation of a unique anti-fraud number.
Artificial intelligence: a valuable ally for scammers
The rise of artificial intelligence offers scammers new tools. Automation of targeting, writing credible scenarios, and refined manipulation are now within their reach. In response to this situation, banks are strengthening their detection systems and multiplying delay mechanisms on suspicious transfers. However, these efforts are not yet sufficient to curb the phenomenon.
The challenges related to the protection of personal data
The protection of personal data has become a crucial issue in the fight against bank scams. Data leaks are often the source of these scams, providing criminals with the information needed to establish a climate of trust. Companies must strengthen their security systems and raise awareness among their customers about the risks.
The role of companies in the fight against cybercrime
Companies play a key role in fraud prevention. By adopting advanced technologies to secure transactions and raising awareness among their employees about the dangers of phishing, they can help reduce risks. Furthermore, collaboration between the banking and technology sectors is essential to develop innovative and effective solutions.
FAQ on fake bank advisor scams
How to recognize a fake call from a bank advisor?
A fake call may be characterized by an urgent request for personal or financial information. Banks never ask for this type of information over the phone. Be vigilant and always verify the caller’s identity.
What measures are banks taking to counter these frauds?
Banks are strengthening their automated detection systems and imposing delay mechanisms on suspicious transfers. They are also working in collaboration with telecommunications to automatically block sensitive numbers.
Does artificial intelligence facilitate these scams?
Yes, artificial intelligence allows scammers to automate victim targeting and create more credible and sophisticated scenarios. This makes fraud detection and prevention more difficult.
What to do if you think you are a victim of such a scam?
Contact your bank immediately to report the incident. Change your passwords and closely monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity. Also, file a complaint with the competent authorities.