Warning about end-of-year scams.

Don't underestimate QR codes.

In recent days, several social media accounts have been spreading information claiming that "scanning a QR code will cause your account to lose all its money," causing a stir among many people. After appearing on Facebook for just one day, the video garnered over 1.6 million views, 3,500 likes, and more than 23,000 shares. In the comments section, many expressed their confusion about this information. However, some quickly noticed inconsistencies in the video's content and realized that what it shared was untrue.

Scammers are committing fraud by using advanced technology.

Mr. Vu Ngoc Son, Head of the Technology Department (National Cybersecurity Association), stated that the claim that scanning QR codes or copying account numbers can cause phones to freeze or accounts to lose money is fake news. According to Mr. Son, QR codes are a way to "compress" one or more data contents into an image format, allowing machines with image sensors (such as scanners and phone cameras) to reverse-map the image back to the original content. "The QR code itself is not malware, but criminals have used it as an intermediary to lead users to fraudulent content. Users only become victims when they provide bank account information, OTP codes, or complete transactions after scanning the code," Mr. Son emphasized.

Common scams include sending QR codes via email or text message, or affixing fake codes at payment counters to trick customers into mistakenly transferring money to the scammers' accounts. Additionally, fake applications impersonating government agencies such as VNeID, the General Department of Taxation, or the Ministry of Public Security are also being distributed, containing malware designed to control users' devices and bank accounts.

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In many stores, QR codes are often printed and framed and placed on the checkout counter or photocopies are posted around the store. Fraudsters exploit this loophole by pasting over or placing signs with fake account QR codes at the checkout point to scam customers and steal transferred funds.

"Fraudsters also create fake QR codes on invoices and flyers impersonating reputable restaurants, eateries, and familiar online shops… to entice and gain the trust of users to scan the code for payment. They even send fake messages or invoices claiming successful transfers and send information to the shop owner, similar to real messages from the bank; the invoices are also altered to make the shop owner mistakenly believe the transaction is complete and deliver the goods to the scammer," - a representative from LPBank further explained the tactics.

Representatives from the Payment Department (State Bank of Vietnam) warned that before scanning a QR code to transfer money, it is necessary to carefully check the bank account number and account holder's name against the store owner's information. Be wary of QR codes shared in public places or through social media, email, etc. In addition, you should proactively block your card or payment account immediately if you suspect or detect signs of fraud.

Beware of "super cheap" tours.

On January 20th, the Information Security Department (Ministry of Information and Communications) issued a warning about recent scams appearing on social media. According to the warning, perpetrators are creating numerous groups and Fanpages on social media platforms like Facebook, posting information about Tet holiday tours with "super discounted" or "super bargain" prices. These posts often include eye-catching images, attractive itineraries, and promises of reliability and quality.

To gain trust, scammers use fake comments from virtual accounts praising the service or boasting about their satisfaction with the tour. In addition, these scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, impersonating reputable travel companies or creating fictitious companies. They use social media, text messages, or unsolicited calls to post and offer Tet holiday tours at unusually low prices. These tactics often involve demanding full payment or a large deposit before providing the service, but without a clear contract or transparent information about the organizing entity.

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The Information Security Department advises people to be vigilant against advertisements from anonymous accounts offering extremely cheap tours compared to market prices; verify information from official sources and do not trust unclear announcements or information channels. People should not provide personal information, bank account information, or passwords to anyone; do not access strange links; do not download applications from unknown sources or follow instructions from strangers. In case of suspected fraud, immediately report it to the authorities or consumer protection organizations for assistance, resolution, and timely prevention.

On social media, numerous posts and videos advertise the sale of counterfeit money in various denominations, for example, offering 1 million VND for 10 million VND. Some accounts even advertise exchanging 1 million VND for 14 million VND without requiring a deposit and allowing for product inspection. To prevent this, the Cybersecurity Department advises people to choose reputable establishments for currency exchange transactions during the Lunar New Year; and to avoid participating in transactions involving unverified currency on social media or unofficial platforms.

Source: https://daidoanket.vn/canh-bao-cac-chieu-tro-lua-dao-cuoi-nam-10298693.html