New Livestream Scam Scheme: Pearl Opening Games Promise High Profits, Then Demand Taxes and Fees

How the Scam Works

According to Ho Chi Minh City Police's Cybercrime Division (PA05), this scam is an evolved version of traditional job-running fraud schemes. Scammers exploit livestream platforms using the following steps:

Step 1: Creating Fake Engagement

Scammers broadcast pearl-opening games, scratch-off lotteries, or prize draws. To create the illusion of popularity and profitability, they generate thousands of fake "likes" and comments, making viewers believe the contest is actively running with many winners earning high profits.

Step 2: Attracting Initial Investment

Once they've drawn an audience, scammers make attractive promises. They advertise slogans like "invest small amounts and earn big returns" and "low risk, high reward." Participants are encouraged to start with small investments.

Step 3: Gradually Increasing Investment Amounts

After initial success (fabricated), scammers build trust by showing fake profits or dividends. They then suggest larger investments to earn even bigger returns. Victims continue investing more money without realizing their cumulative losses.

Step 4: Demanding Taxes and Fees

Once a significant amount has been collected, scammers introduce new excuses and obstacles. They claim "taxes must be paid before withdrawing funds," "fees are required to unlock the account," or similar demands. When victims can no longer pay, scammers simply disappear with all collected funds.

Warning Signs and How to Identify Scams

Be cautious of livestream broadcasts showing these characteristics:

• Unnatural Comment Patterns: Repetitive comments praising the streamer or similar messages flooding the chat
• Inconsistent Success Stories: Vastly different profit claims (e.g., "$1 invested became $100" vs. "$100 invested became $5000")
• Evasive Streamer Responses: Questions about investment details are answered vaguely or avoided entirely
• Unclear Withdrawal Conditions: Unable to clearly explain why taxes or fees are necessary
• Platform Policy Violations: Operating investment games that legitimate platforms explicitly prohibit

Prevention Tips

1. Never Send Money for Unclear Reasons: Refuse suspicious requests and unverifiable conditions
2. Never Share OTP Codes: Bank and service authentication codes must never be shared with anyone
3. Watch Out for Tax and Fee Scams: Legitimate services rarely demand sudden large taxes or fees
4. Consult Before Acting: If unsure, discuss with family or trusted friends before making decisions
5. Report Suspicious Content: Use the "Report" feature on social media platforms to flag fraudulent livestreams

Where to Report

If you've been scammed or encountered suspicious broadcasts:

• Contact Ho Chi Minh City Police
• Report to the livestream platform (Facebook, TikTok, etc.)
• Visit your local police station or consumer protection agency

Remember: reporting fraud is not something to feel embarrassed about—it's a necessary action to catch criminals and protect others from similar scams.