New Impersonation Scam via Social Media: Multi-Step Trust Building and Fake Transfer Instructions

A new social media scam has been reported in Vietnam where fraudsters create fake accounts impersonating relatives on Zalo. Rather than directly requesting money, they manipulate victims into calling family members on Facebook to ask for loans. After building trust, scammers send fake transaction screenshots and transfer notifications to steal money. Police advise direct verification and protecting personal information.

How the Scam Works

A fraud case reported by police in Thanh Ba Ward, Phu Tho Province, Vietnam, revealed a sophisticated multi-step scheme:

Account Compromise or Impersonation: Criminals create or take over Zalo accounts using the same name and profile picture as the victim's relative
Indirect Approach: Instead of directly requesting money, scammers instruct victims to call a family member on Facebook and ask for a loan (e.g., for buying a gift for spouse)
Trust Building: The multi-step process lowers the victim's guard and creates false confidence
Fake Evidence and Requests: Scammers send transaction screenshots, fake transfer notifications, or claim transfer errors to justify additional payments

Warning Signs

Don't rely solely on account information: A user's name, profile picture, or chat content on social media alone cannot verify someone's identity
Be suspicious of complicated processes: If the money transfer requires unusually many steps, it may be a scam
Question transaction screenshots: Screenshots or online messages should never be the only basis for sending money

Prevention Tips

Always verify directly: When asked for money transfers or loans, call the person using a saved phone number or meet them in person
Avoid suspicious links and apps: Don't click on unknown links or download apps from unverified sources
Never share personal information: Never provide passwords, OTP codes, bank account details, or personal data via phone, Zalo, or social media
Enable security features: Activate two-factor authentication and regularly check login activity on online accounts

If You've Been Scammed

Contact your bank immediately: Report the fraudulent transaction and ask the bank to suspend or reverse it
Report to police: File a report at your nearest police station and follow their guidance

Where to Report

Contact your local police department to report fraud. The sooner you report, the better the chance of recovering your money or preventing further scams.