Warning Against Fraudulent Air Conditioner Offers in France

Paris – 26.06.2026: In light of the ongoing heatwave in France, authorities are warning about fraudulent offers for supposedly innovative air conditioners. These devices are promoted as French innovations that function without installation and without an exhaust hose. In reality, such air conditioners either do not exist at all or are counterfeit products that do not provide the promised benefits.

The General Directorate for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) has discovered over 200 fraudulent websites selling these fake products since the beginning of the heatwave. The number of sites is increasing daily, while the responsible authorities try to remove these offers from the internet.

Typical features of these fraudulent websites include a professional appearance with credible product photos and logos, extremely low prices – about 199 euros, whereas other air conditioners on the market cost around 500 euros – as well as promises of fast delivery despite high demand. Additionally, they often feature fake positive customer reviews, purchase pressure through alleged time limitations or limited stock, and restricted payment options such as bank transfer or cryptocurrencies. Legal notices are often missing or unclearly formulated.

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has made such scams more professional and faster. While it used to take weeks to build credible sales sites, today AI can generate convincingly realistic websites within a short time.

Currently circulating fraudulent brand names include Coolizi, Jiuberry, Breezo, Cooling Ace, and Polarlux. These brands belong to a network operated via shell companies in Hong Kong and the USA, behind individual fraudulent websites.

To protect themselves, consumer advocates recommend conducting an internet search before purchasing by combining the website names with terms like “reviews” or “fraud” to find warnings. It is advised to shop from established retailers such as Boulanger, Darty, Fnac, Cdiscount, Leroy Merlin, Castorama, or Amazon. Additionally, consumers should preferably pay by credit card with 3D-Secure to enable chargebacks in case of problems. A retailer with a physical store is recommended to allow personal customer service in disputes. Especially for larger purchases, buying from brick-and-mortar stores with competent advice and demonstrations is advisable.

Particular caution is required with air conditioners lacking an exhaust hose, which often make unrealistic performance claims. These devices do not correspond to actual technical capabilities and are either non-existent or counterfeit.

By carefully checking, choosing reputable providers, and heeding warning signs, consumers can avoid falling victim to such scams and ensure their investment actually provides benefits.