On March 10th, the Cyber Security Agency under the Ministry of Information and Communications identified 5 new forms of online scams in the past week with extremely cunning tactics.
Financial Investment Scams Online
Recently, many residents in Hanoi have fallen victim to online financial investment scams, losing from several billion to tens of billion VND, with some cases involving a loss of up to 57 billion VND. Some common methods include multi-level marketing schemes involving virtual or cryptocurrency, disguised cryptocurrency trading platforms, and binary options scams.
The Cyber Security Agency advises the public to remain vigilant and cautious when encountering investment opportunities or promotions, especially online. It is essential to thoroughly research the regulating authority and the company before investing. Citizens should also equip themselves with financial and investment knowledge and seek advice from financial or legal experts to make informed decisions and avoid falling prey to scams.
Support Fraud to Retrieve Lost Funds
According to reports, despite being scammed once, many individuals continue to fall victim to subsequent scams orchestrated by groups impersonating cybersecurity agencies, law firms, and banks.
The Cyber Security Agency strongly advises against providing personal information to anyone through any means, as disclosing such information can lead to unpredictable consequences. Furthermore, individuals should refrain from engaging in financial transactions or transferring money to unknown entities without proper verification. In case of suspected fraudulent activities, citizens are urged to contact the police for timely advice and assistance.
QR Code Scanning Scam in Mail Parcels
Authorities in Ha Tinh Province and Thu Duc City (Ho Chi Minh City) issued warnings regarding the discovery of parcels containing QR codes with prize-winning vouchers. Recipients were instructed to scan the QR code to access a link and provide personal information to claim their rewards.
Although there have been no reported cases of online scams involving QR code scanning on prize vouchers received via courier, the Cyber Security Agency emphasizes the potential risk of QR codes printed on gift vouchers leading to fake websites aiming to steal personal information or assets.
The Cyber Security Agency advises caution when scanning QR codes, especially those found in public places or shared through social media or email.
Support Scam for "Legal Assistance"
Recently, an individual named N.T.H (27 years old, residing in Thua Thien Hue Province) was arrested by the Dak Lak Police for defrauding people by impersonating government officials offering legal assistance.
The Cyber Security Agency recommends that citizens educate themselves and acquire knowledge to protect themselves online and refrain from disclosing personal information under any circumstances.
Financial Investment Scams through Dating Apps
Exploiting the increasing popularity of online dating apps, perpetrators have been carrying out scams to defraud victims of their assets.
In reality, there have been cases where victims have lost significant sums of money. For instance, a woman in Hanoi was defrauded of 5.4 billion VND by an acquaintance she met through the Tinder app.
The Cyber Security Agency advises the public to be cautious when participating in online dating apps. Furthermore, individuals should avoid participating in financial investment apps or international trading platforms advertised with high interest rates, as they pose a risk of being defrauded.
In case of encountering fraudulent activities, citizens are urged to promptly report them to the police for investigation, prevention, and prosecution of offenders.
Detailed Information: https://ctsv.uit.edu.vn/bai-viet/5-hinh-thuc-lua-dao-moi-voi-nhung-chieu...
Hạ Băng - Media Collaborator, University of Information Technology
English version: Phan Huy Hoang
