Brian Jeffrey
New forms of impersonation scams, mobile app fraud, and QR code scams are being used to steal assets.
Suspicious yellow cards with numbers on the front and various instructions, passwords, and QR codes on the back have been spotted in Ho Chi Minh City, Soc Trang, and Hanoi recently.
Security experts warn that scanning these QR codes can give scammers control over a phone, enabling them to steal money from bank accounts, access images from the phone, and gather personal information and social media account details.
To avoid falling victim to QR code scams, exercise caution when scanning QR codes and ensure the legitimacy of the transaction before proceeding. Verify that the URL starts with ‘https’ and be attentive to the domain name before taking any further steps. Refrain from sharing personal data, adopt two-factor authentication, and implement other protective measures for your accounts.
Scammers are taking advantage of upcoming major events and school holidays by setting up social media pages that claim to recruit child models, singers, athletes, or brand representatives as part of scams to defraud people.
To engage users, victims are directed to a website where they are asked to complete specific tasks to increase interaction and votes. Subsequently, they are requested to transfer money to finish the tasks. Victims are often added to private groups on social media, where others impersonate parents to coax them into transferring money.
The Department of Information Security suggests researching the company behind such programs. Choose reputable companies or centers only after confirming their information. Refrain from sharing personal details on websites or social media without verifying their credibility and avoid online transactions for task fulfillment.
Despite repeated warnings, many individuals still fall prey to online job scams offering ‘easy work with high pay,’ particularly those seeking online part-time employment.
Recently, a woman from Thanh Hoa province reported losing money while working online for a cosmetic surgery company based in Hanoi. She transferred 330 million VND ($15,000) but was unable to withdraw the money after completing the tasks.
The Department of Information Security emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance and encourages informing friends and family about these scams. Before engaging as an online collaborator, thoroughly verify the company’s background and the products they offer. Promptly report any scam incidents to the police.
Symantec has cautioned iPhone users in the US about scam messages posing as Apple to steal personal data and Apple ID passwords. By obtaining the Apple ID password, scammers can seize control of the device, access personal information, bank details, and conduct transactions to steal money.
These messages typically request users to log into iCloud via a fake website. The Department of Information Security recommends enabling multi-factor authentication, refraining from sharing passwords or passcodes, and maintaining up-to-date software. Block and report suspicious messages or calls to prevent falling victim to scams.
Australian authorities have recently highlighted scams impersonating Amazon. Scammers reach out to individuals through text, social media, or phone, claiming issues with their Amazon account or orders, and request personal and financial details.
Scammers might allege that a package in the victim’s name contains illegal items, necessitating verification through personal information. Another scheme involves tricking users into signing up or renewing Amazon Prime services on fake platforms, leading to device compromise and information theft.
The Department of Information Security advises caution with messages and calls related to e-commerce platforms. Verify information through official platforms or customer support, avoid clicking suspicious links, and never disclose personal or financial data to unknown individuals. Report any scams to technical support teams to prevent asset loss.
