As year-end festivities approach, online shopping scams are on the rise. The Authority of Information Security (under the Ministry of Information and Communications) has identified these scams as one of the most common forms of online fraud in Vietnam’s cyberspace.

Over recent years, online fraud has escalated both in Vietnam and globally, evolving continuously to exploit internet users. Tactics range from identity theft and romance scams to impersonation and investment fraud.

Among these, financial investment scams, fake business websites, and fraudulent schemes targeting year-end shoppers have been particularly prominent from December 9–15, according to recent warnings issued by the Authority of Information Security.

Fake business websites

Recently, prominent brands under the VinGroup conglomerate - such as VinFast, Xanh SM, and Vinhomes - issued warnings about scammers impersonating their businesses. They urged customers to be cautious when sharing personal and banking information.

Common tactics include fraudsters posing as employees, senior managers, shareholders, or agents of VinFast, Vinhomes, or Xanh SM. These scammers lure victims by promoting investments in fake funds, such as "investment funds," "capital mobilization funds," or "welfare funds" associated with Vingroup companies.

Additionally, scammers promise job opportunities, sell counterfeit products, or request upfront payments through fake websites and other channels.

The Authority of Information Security advised the public to remain vigilant against false information circulated on social media. It urged people to verify the identity of individuals or organizations through official channels before engaging. Consumers should avoid high-return investment offers and never provide personal, banking, or password information on unverified websites.

If fraud is suspected, victims are encouraged to promptly report the case to local police for investigation and action.

Online shopping scams during year-end sales

The year-end holiday season, marked by Christmas, New Year’s, and massive sales events, has become a prime time for scammers to exploit eager shoppers. Many individuals have fallen victim to schemes involving personal data theft and financial fraud.

According to the Authority of Information Security, scammers often prey on the "deal-hunting" mindset by sending fake promotional emails and messages mimicking reputable e-commerce platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and Tiki.

These criminals also use social media’s data-driven user profiling to target victims. They create counterfeit fan pages or websites that closely resemble official ones from major brands, using advertisements to entice victims with products they’re interested in, often at deep discounts, to steal money.

Social media and advanced tactics

Meta has also issued warnings about online shopping scams on platforms like Threads, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and forums like Quora.

Scammers often use unauthorized videos with AI-generated voiceovers to promote fake product deals, emphasizing limited stock to pressure buyers. Victims are then directed to fraudulent websites to complete purchases and payments.

Given the increasing prevalence of online fraud during the holiday season, the Authority of Information Security urged the public to exercise caution when shopping online or conducting transactions through social media.

To protect yourself:

Verify the seller’s identity, check their reputation, and evaluate product quality before making a purchase.

Avoid making advance payments or deposits to unverified sellers.

Never transfer money or share OTP codes with strangers.

Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments from unknown sources.
 

Van Anh