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Health insurance is a vital aspect of living in France, and the Assurance Maladie system ensures residents have access to affordable healthcare. However, scammers often exploit this essential service to steal personal information. Understanding how to recognise fraudulent communication is critical for protecting yourself.
What is Ameli?
Ameli, short for assurance maladie en ligne, is the official online platform for the French Assurance Maladie System. It provides access to health insurance services, including reimbursement tracking, medical certificates, and managing personal details. The official website is ameli.fr, and it is the only secure platform for managing your health insurance online.
It's important to note that Assurance Maladie will never request sensitive information via email, phone calls, or unsolicited messages. Always verify any communication you receive.
Common health insurance scams in France
Scammers often impersonate Ameli or CPAM to deceive individuals using various tactics.
Phishing emails: Scammers often send emails appearing to be from Ameli or CPAM using official-looking logos and layout. These emails might request personal or financial information. Common signs of fraud include misspellings, unusual phrasing and attachments (which Ameli never includes).
Phone calls and SMS scams: Scammers may contact victims via phone or text, claiming issues with their health insurance. Requests for immediate payment or personal data are major red flags.
How to protect yourself
To protect yourself from health insurance scams in France, always verify the source of communication. Confirm emails, texts or calls are from legitimate channels by directly accessing your Ameli account through the official website. Avoid sharing sensitive information such as personal details, banking information, or passwords in response to unsolicited requests. Strengthen your account security with a unique password. Regularly monitor your account for any unauthorised activity. If you suspect fraud, report it promptly to Assurance Maladie or local authorities.
What to do if you have been scammed?
Verify the message: Always double-check the sender's email address or phone number. If suspicious, contact the organisation directly using official channels found of their verified website or application.
Do not share information: Avoid disclosing personal or financial data over unsolicited calls, emails, or texts. Never click on links or open attachments in suspicious messages.
Secure your accounts: Change your passwords regularly. Use a complex, unique password for your Ameli account, updated directly via Ameli Connect.
Report fraud attempts: Report fraudulent SMS at 33700.fr or by text 33 700. Phishing attempts can be submitted through Phishing Initiative.
If you have been scammed, retain any evidence and file a report with your local police or gendarmerie. Victims can also contact Info Escroqueries at 0 805 805 817 (free in France), available Monday to Friday 9am to 6.30pm.
To wrap it all up
Navigating health insurance in France is essential, but it is equally crucial to remain vigilant against scams. Remember, Assurance Maladie will never ask for personal information via email or phone. Always rely on the official Ameli platform for secure transactions and updates. By staying cautious and informed, you can protect your data and enjoy the benefits of the French healthcare system worry-free.
