Apparently there has been block-booking of appointments via the préfecture’s website, some for multiple applicants at the same time, and, it seems, many from the same email address! This is obviously making it difficult for people to get an appointment. These ‘stolen’ appointments are then advertised and sold to Brits keen to get their status confirmed and to get their hands on a CdS. Perhaps this is happening elsewhere…
That is appalling.
But why would you want to buy an appointment?
It should be screaming that something is wrong.
I agree. Rules and procedures for obtaining documents etc. are usually clearly published and free of charge, or state a fee if there is one. The process is to go to the préfecture and join the queue. But many services are now 'dématérialised" and must be done by internet. It looks like the fraudsters have been taking advantage of the anonymity and the uncertainty around Brexit, with all the anxiety to get a CdS, by making it difficult to get an appointment any other way.
Another article here : https://www.francebleu.fr/infos/economie-social/la-cimade-denonce-des-prises-de-rendez-vous-impossible-en-prefecture-pour-les-etrangers-1549033667