As the Lunar New Year approaches, Vietnam is witnessing a sharp spike in scams targeting shoppers, travelers, and those seeking financial support ahead of Tet 2026. Authorities across the country are issuing urgent warnings about increasingly bold and tech-savvy fraud operations exploiting the festive season.

With demand for goods, transportation, and online services peaking, criminal networks are ramping up efforts to deceive, mislead, and steal - often with devastating consequences for unsuspecting victims.

The QR code scam: ‘Scan for a gift’ becomes a trap

On January 15, Ho Chi Minh City’s Department of Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Prevention (PA05) issued a public alert over a surge in scams involving QR code manipulation to hijack Zalo accounts.

According to the police, scammers exploit the “quick login via QR code” feature to trick users into scanning a code under the pretense of receiving a gift or watching sensational content. In reality, the code links to the scammers' devices, granting them access to the victim's Zalo account.

This tactic is particularly dangerous because it takes advantage of user habits - quick, often thoughtless interactions. When a QR code is scanned, the user’s phone will prompt for login approval or to link a new device. If approved, the scammer gains full control of the account.

Police advise the public never to scan QR codes from unknown sources. If a suspicious login notification appears, users should immediately press “Decline” and change their password. Any suspected account breaches or financial thefts should be reported to law enforcement without delay.

Fake ticket sales: AI-generated agents selling illusions

In the lead-up to Tet, hundreds of fake fanpages advertising “cheap flight tickets” have sprung up, many using AI-generated images and voices to impersonate airline staff. These polished presentations - complete with soothing voices and professional-looking visuals - are designed to build trust and deceive.

However, telltale signs reveal the truth: unnatural lip sync, lifeless eyes, and awkward movements - all hallmarks of AI-generated fraud.

During a press conference on January 8, Lieutenant Colonel Ho Tho Hai, Deputy Head of PA05, warned that scammers are increasingly exploiting the rush and anxiety over sold-out travel tickets. By mimicking official ticket vendors and publishing fake customer comments, they create a sense of urgency and legitimacy.

Victims are pressured to transfer money quickly “before tickets run out,” only to be blocked immediately after. These scams often include fake hotline numbers and carefully crafted messages to maintain the illusion until the transaction is complete.

‘Tet support’ and ‘gift packages’ masking financial theft

A new warning issued by Gia Lai Province’s Cybersecurity Department (ANM) highlights a disturbing trend: scammers posing as the Vietnam Social Security Agency, offering Tet gifts and financial aid.

Using deceptive fanpages named “Tet Support by Social Security” or “Official Government Aid,” scammers replicate logos, branding, and language to lure victims. These pages often run aggressive ad campaigns or send direct messages with links, urging users to fill in personal data, including bank details and OTPs.

Once trust is gained, victims are asked to pay a “processing” or “disbursement” fee. At that point, their data and money are swiftly stolen.

Online shopping scams wrapped in year-end ‘flash sales’

In Nghe An, authorities have flagged a rise in fraudulent e-commerce campaigns disguised as Tet promotions. Criminals set up fake websites mimicking major brands, advertise deep discounts, and entice users to click on malicious links.

These scams also involve impersonating employees from e-commerce platforms or delivery services, demanding pre-payment via e-wallets under the guise of “verifying delivery” or “claiming a prize.”

Some scammers even employ Deepfake technology - AI-generated videos and voice clones - to enhance credibility. These simulations can be so realistic that even experienced users may struggle to distinguish them from legitimate representatives.

A single careless click can result in stolen credentials, unauthorized transactions, or full account takeovers.

To combat this, authorities urge consumers to avoid clicking on unfamiliar links in texts or emails, and to only interact through official apps or verified websites. For online purchases, customers are advised to prioritize “cash on delivery” options and thoroughly review seller credibility.

Stay alert: Recognizing the red flags before it’s too late

With Tet just around the corner, the pressure to secure travel, complete shopping, or grab discounts can cloud judgment. Scammers know this - and they are banking on it.

From QR traps and fake support programs to deepfaked promotions and fraudulent delivery messages, these schemes rely on subtle psychological pressure, fast-paced decisions, and a growing reliance on digital interactions.

By staying vigilant, double-checking links and sources, and resisting the urge to act in haste, users can avoid falling into these traps. And when in doubt, contact the proper authorities or go directly to verified sources rather than trusting a message or phone call at face value.

Y Nhuy