Over 200 Foreign Nationals Arrested for Online Fraud Operations in Vietnam

Overview of the Fraud

Vietnamese law enforcement agencies are addressing a rapid expansion of online fraud with new emerging threats. The first half of 2026 saw 959 reported online fraud cases with an estimated damage of approximately 1.5 trillion Vietnamese dong.

Particularly alarming is the increase in fraud activities by foreign national groups entering Vietnam. These criminal networks rent facilities to conduct scams targeting international citizens. Authorities have arrested over 200 foreign suspects involved in these operations.

How the Fraud Works

Criminals employ several sophisticated tactics:

Fake Authentication Apps: Fraudsters create counterfeit applications mimicking government agencies, tax departments, power companies, and banks. These fake apps steal personal information and OTP codes (one-time passwords) to remotely control devices or access accounts.

Deepfake Technology: Using AI, criminals create highly realistic fake videos, images, and audio impersonating real individuals or relatives. These synthetic media are used in impersonation calls demanding urgent money transfers.

Biometric System Bypassing: International criminal organizations have developed and sold tools to overcome facial recognition and other biometric authentication systems used in online transactions.

Mobile Device Malware: Approximately 63,000 new malware variants targeting mobile phones were detected in Vietnam during 2025. Mobile devices are particularly vulnerable because users often lack protective software compared to computers.

Warning Signs

1. Unsolicited urgent payment requests from family members or authority figures, especially those demanding payment via cryptocurrency or untraceable methods
2. Fake application notifications claiming security issues requiring immediate action
3. Suspicious links or QR codes in emails or messages purporting to be from official institutions
4. Requests for OTP codes from anyone claiming to be official staff
5. Video calls from known contacts that seem slightly unusual or request money urgently
6. Strange pop-ups when accessing banking or official services

Prevention Tips

1. Download apps only from official sources: Use only the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for legitimate applications. Verify the publisher is the actual organization.

2. Verify requests through alternate channels: If you receive an urgent request from a family member or colleague, verify it through a separate phone call or in-person meeting before complying.

3. Never share OTP codes: No legitimate organization will request your OTP. If someone asks for it, hang up immediately and contact your bank.

4. Keep software updated: Regularly update your operating system, applications, and security software.

5. Use strong, unique passwords: Create complex passwords for each account and enable two-factor authentication on important services.

6. Be skeptical of video verification: Even video calls can be fake using deepfake technology. For high-value transactions, use additional verification methods.

7. Act immediately if suspicious: If you notice unusual activity, stop the transaction immediately and contact your financial institution. Vietnam's fraud prevention system alerts users to suspicious activity, with over 1.1 million users successfully stopping transfers after recognizing warning signs.

Where to Report

If you suspect fraud, contact:

• Vietnamese Police (119): For reporting fraud and cybercrime
• Your Bank's Customer Service: For suspicious transactions
• National Cybersecurity Association: For fraud reporting and prevention resources
• nTrust Anti-Fraud System: For reporting suspected fraud activities