“Stop arnaques” is the name of the hard-hitting campaign launched by the IEDOM (Institut d’émission des départements d’outre-mer) and the IEOM (Institut d’émission d’outre-mer) to respond to an emergency that is all too often underestimated: the upsurge in bank fraud affecting users in the French overseas territories. This initiative aims to raise awareness and arm citizens against increasingly sophisticated scams, at a time when fraudsters are redoubling their creativity thanks to new technologies.
Fake e-mails, calls from bogus advisors, promises of unconditional credit or even cheque manipulation: the modus operandi may be evolving, but the aim remains the same: to take your money. The “Stop Arnaques” campaign, designed to be accessible and straightforward, is aimed at everyone: individuals, professionals, businesses… And its message is clear: when you value your money, you hold on to it.
The false banking advisor : the enemy behind the reassuring voice
He calls gently. He knows your name, your banking habits. He claims he wants to help you block a suspicious transaction.
In reality, he’s manipulating you. This increasingly common ploy is based on fear and panic. By asking you for your credit card or online banking details, they try to break through the last barriers protecting your savings.
The IEDOM and IEOM institutes remind you of an essential rule: no advisor will ever ask you for your personal codes.
If in doubt, hang up immediately and dial your branch yourself. Check your statements and the status of your means of payment regularly. Anticipation is your best defense.
Unconditional credit : hope that traps the most vulnerable
In times of difficulty, an immediate credit offer can seem like a lifeline.
That’s precisely where the crooks strike.
In exchange for a few dozen euros in application fees, they promise loans with no verification or guarantees. But once the money is paid, they disappear, leaving the victim with a financial loss and often a loss of confidence.
The reminder from the IEDOM and IEOM is firm: credit is a regulated business.
Any person or entity offering you a loan must be approved. Before giving in to the temptation of an offer that’s too good to be true, check its authenticity.
To refuse is sometimes to protect oneself from a destructive spiral.
The check: vigilance is always necessary
Often perceived as a traditional method of payment, cheks are nevertheless the most frequently defrauded.
The scam is simple: the scammer offers to fill it in for you, under the pretext of helping you.
But he takes the opportunity to change the amount or the name of the beneficiary. As a result, you lose control over what should have been a secure transaction.
The “Stop arnaques” campaign emphasizes good practice: fill in your checks, without leaving any empty fields.
Amount in figures and words, date, place, beneficiary and signature: everything must be completed without exception.
This simple gesture can prevent major losses.
A clear, straightforward and educational prevention system
With “Stop arnaques”, the IEDOM and IEOM have chosen to speak the truth. No complex jargon, just short, visual, high-impact messages adapted to the realities of the French overseas territories. Three colorful visuals, widely distributed online, summarize the right reflexes to adopt in the face of these everyday pitfalls.
This campaign is not simply a reminder to be cautious. It reflects a deep commitment to protecting users in the French overseas territories in the face of a constantly evolving threat. It aims not only to alert, but also to empower those who, every day, may be targeted.
When you value your money, you hold on to it
One of the campaign’s most powerful slogans: “Quand on tient à son argent, on le retentient” (When you value your money, you hold on to it) – perfectly illustrates the spirit of “Stop arnaques”: vigilance is a vital reflex. In a digital world where attempted scams can appear at any time, it’s no longer enough to be aware of the risks: we need to adopt the right behaviors.
By providing clear, practical information that is widely disseminated, the IEDOM and IEOM are providing a structured response to a social problem. Banking scams are not inevitable. As long as you stay informed, keep your distance from suspicious solicitations, and remember that there’s no emergency that justifies giving up your confidential codes.
“Stop arnaques” : a call for collective responsibility
While prevention messages are important, the fight against fraud also requires collective mobilization. Raising awareness among family and friends, supporting the most vulnerable, reporting suspicious attempts… everyone can play a part in spreading this vigilance.
“Stop arnaques” isn’t just a campaign. It’s an outstretched hand to all those who, sometimes, don’t dare ask questions, or recognize too late that they’ve been tricked. It’s also a message of hope: in the face of ever more audacious swindlers, the best response remains information, solidarity and prudence.
