
Scam in FranceOnline bookings
Ride-app account takeover in France
How it works
A supposed driver asks for your mobile number to confirm a booking. They use it to try to access another account, such as Uber, then ask you for the text-message confirmation code. If you share it, they can access your account and book rides in your name.
Warning signs
- A driver asks for your number to confirm the booking.
- You receive an unexpected login code from another app.
- The driver asks you to share that code or claims Uber runs Bolt operations in Paris.
How to avoid it
- Never share login or confirmation codes.
- Do not follow a driver's request to confirm another app account.
- Cancel the ride and report the driver through the app.
If it happens to you
Report the driver and request a cancellation-fee refund. If you shared a code, secure the affected account immediately and check for rides or charges you did not authorise.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or start a fight. Call 17 or 112 if you are threatened or in immediate danger.
- Check what is missing. Contact your card issuer immediately to block stolen cards and flag payments you did not authorise.
- Secure affected accounts. If a phone or login code was stolen, change passwords and end unfamiliar sessions.
- Save evidence. Keep receipts, screenshots, messages, booking details and any driver or vehicle number.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a report reference or written record for your bank or insurer.
- Contact your insurer and, if travel documents were stolen, your embassy or consulate. For a disputed Marseille taxi fare, take the driver's number to the Tourist's Office at 11, La Canebière.
Questions
What is the ride-app account takeover scam in France?
A supposed driver asks for your mobile number to confirm a booking. They use it to try to access another account, such as Uber, then ask you for the text-message confirmation code. If you share it, they can access your account and book rides in your name.
How can I spot it early?
A driver asks for your number to confirm the booking. You receive an unexpected login code from another app. The driver asks you to share that code or claims Uber runs Bolt operations in Paris.
How do I avoid ride-app account takeover in France?
Never share login or confirmation codes. Do not follow a driver's request to confirm another app account. Cancel the ride and report the driver through the app.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Report the driver and request a cancellation-fee refund. If you shared a code, secure the affected account immediately and check for rides or charges you did not authorise.
Where in France does this happen?
Ride-booking apps in Paris, including Bolt. It has been reported in Paris.
How common is this scam in France?
Occasional. Pickpocketing and street scams are common concerns in France, especially in busy tourist areas and on public transport. Paris has several well-known tricks involving petitions, bracelets, tickets and bars; other risks include taxi overcharging, bag theft and drink-spiking.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 17 or 112 for a crime-related emergency. For a non-urgent scam or theft, visit a police station and bring any evidence. National Police generally serve urban areas; the National Gendarmerie serves the countryside. Card issuer or bank: use the bank's official app or contact number to block stolen cards and report charges you did not authorise. Ride-booking app: cancel and report a driver who asks for login codes. Request a refund of any cancellation fee and report rides booked without your permission. Marseille Tourist's Office: for taxi overcharging, take the driver's number to 11, La Canebière, near Le Vieux Port, and speak to a representative. Staff can help seek repayment. Paris taxi complaint handler: record the taxi number from the sticker on the left rear passenger window. Keep it with your receipt and journey details when making a complaint. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: report the loss through the insurer's official claims channel. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of the loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in France?
Police: 17, European emergency number: 112, Medical emergency: 15, Fire brigade: 18.
Reviewed by @snuck