Paris, French authorities have issued a warning about a fraud scheme in which criminals impersonate police officers, gendarmes or government investigators to gain the confidence of victims and steal money and valuable possessions.

The warning, published through France’s official public-security information service, focuses particularly on elderly people, who may be targeted by fraudsters using convincing stories and personal information.

Authorities said the scam often begins with a telephone call or email. The criminal may already know basic details about the intended victim, such as their name or address, and uses that information to make the approach appear genuine.

The fraudster then claims that suspicious activity has been detected involving the victim’s bank account or that an investigation is underway. The victim may subsequently be told that their money, jewellery or other valuables are at risk.

In some cases, criminals allegedly exploit the urgency created by the false investigation to persuade victims to hand over cash, gold or jewellery. The objective is to make the victim believe that cooperating with the supposed official is necessary to protect their property.

French authorities are urging residents to be particularly cautious when someone unexpectedly contacts them while claiming to represent law enforcement or another government institution.

The warning highlights the importance of not allowing fear or urgency to override normal security precautions. A caller who pressures someone into immediately handing over valuables or revealing confidential information should be treated with suspicion.

Authorities also advise people not to provide sensitive banking information merely because the person contacting them claims to be a police officer, investigator or government employee.

The criminals’ ability to use personal information makes this type of fraud particularly convincing. Authorities noted that information about victims can sometimes be obtained through data leaks or other sources, allowing fraudsters to make their stories appear more credible.

Officials are encouraging families and relatives to discuss these scams with elderly members of their households. Awareness can help potential victims recognize warning signs before criminals succeed in obtaining money or property.

The French authorities’ warning is part of broader efforts to prevent financial crime by educating the public about common fraud techniques. Rather than relying solely on investigations after money has been stolen, officials are also emphasizing prevention and rapid recognition of suspicious approaches.

People who suspect that they have been targeted by such a scheme should avoid following the caller’s instructions and contact the relevant authorities through independently verified official contact details.

The advisory does not refer to one single criminal group or individual case. Instead, it warns about a recurring fraud technique in which offenders exploit trust in public institutions.

French authorities continue to encourage residents, particularly seniors and their families, to remain alert when receiving unexpected communications involving alleged investigations, financial accounts or demands for valuables.