A new scam is targeting the elderly, with fraudsters posing as Agirc-Arrco, the supplementary pension organization for private sector employees. Over the past few days, many individuals have received strange messages, emails, and calls from these criminals. They are asking victims to update their files with personal information, threatening that they will no longer receive their retirement pension if they don't comply. As reported by Sud Ouest, victims are being asked to provide their bank details and sometimes even to make micro-transactions. This scam is part of a broader trend where cybercriminals attempt to steal sensitive data such as bank details, login credentials, or social security numbers.
The Agirc-Arrco has identified this scam and has made it clear that no employee will ever ask for money or bank card details. "No collaborator of the Federation or the supplementary pension institutions will ask you for the payment of a sum of money or your bank card details," the pension scheme stated on its website. They also emphasized that the maintenance of retirement or reversion pensions is not linked to a means test, and there is no need to send a declaration of resources to the pension fund.
On March 19, 2025, Agirc-Arrco issued a warning about the rise in fraudulent emails and SMS messages that use the name and logo of the retirement scheme. The organization cautioned, "Fraudulent SMS, calls, or emails are multiplying. Stay vigilant against scam attempts!" These fraudulent messages aim to recover personal data, and Agirc-Arrco advises individuals not to respond to these messages or click on any links they contain.
In their communication, Agirc-Arrco recommended that insured individuals change their passwords regularly for their personal Agirc-Arrco accounts and their email accounts. They also provided guidance for retirees who fall victim to identity theft. Victims are advised to immediately change their hacked passwords on all sites or accounts where they are used, notify their bank, keep evidence of the scam (such as emails and screenshots), and file a complaint on the website www.pre-plainte-en-ligne.gouv.fr. Additionally, they can seek help from the Info Escroqueries service by calling the toll-free number 0 805 805 817.
Agirc-Arrco's warning highlights the need for vigilance among retirees, who are often prime targets for scammers, especially online. The organization noted that these scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with fraudsters using the name and logo of Agirc-Arrco to deceive insured individuals into providing confidential information such as their social security numbers, login credentials, or bank details. The goal is clear: to appropriate personal information for fraudulent withdrawals or identity theft.
To protect themselves, Agirc-Arrco advises individuals to check the sender's address in case of a suspicious email. Fraudsters sometimes use addresses that closely resemble those of Agirc-Arrco but contain subtle errors or modifications. Individuals should never respond to dubious messages, whether they come via SMS, email, or phone call.
Furthermore, the organization warns against clicking any links contained in suspicious messages, as these links may lead to fraudulent sites imitating the official Agirc-Arrco interface. It is crucial to never disclose identifiers, passwords, or bank details, as Agirc-Arrco never requests such information via email or phone.
In case individuals suspect they have communicated personal information to a scammer, Agirc-Arrco urges them to act without delay. The first step is to modify their passwords. Next, they should notify their bank and keep all evidence of the scam. Filing a complaint through the official platform Pre-plainte-en-ligne.gouv.fr is also recommended. For immediate assistance, victims can contact the Info Escroqueries telephone platform at 0 805 805 817 or report the incident on cybermalveillance.gouv.fr.
The Agirc-Arrco pension scheme's warning serves as a critical reminder for retirees and others to remain alert to the increasing number of scams targeting their personal information. As cybercriminals continue to develop new tactics, it is essential for individuals to stay informed and take proactive measures to protect their sensitive data.
