The Order of Chartered Accountants (OEC) in the Paris Ile-de-France region has indicated an increase of close to 100% of presumed cases of illegal chartered accounting practices in Q1 2014 compared to Q1 2013.

The OEC region in Paris Ile-de-France has drafted an photofit of the "chartered accounting predator". This concerns a male of between 35 and 80 years of age, with at best a Higher Technical Degree (BTS), often a CAP in accounting and primarily offering services in Paris or the greater Paris region.  He develops his client base via word of mouth or small ads, often posts under qualified staff or trainees and charges various amounts.  The target? People who are ill-informed as to the profession of chartered accountant.

The local authorities have taken stock of the inherent danger in these cases of fraud, with a repeat offender having recently been sentenced to six months in prison. A first in illegal practices.

To avoid any crime or the presentation of erroneous accounts, which would lead to legal proceedings by the administration without any possibility of seeking action against the "fake chartered accountant" (no professional indemnity insurance), you can consult the free directory of the Order of Chartered Accountants online.