Parents Alert: Scammers Impersonating Police Officers Target Children's Digital ID Registration

Scammers in Ca Mau Province, Vietnam are impersonating police officers and calling parents to request updates on children's digital identification data. They trick parents into clicking malicious links, installing suspicious apps, or providing personal information by falsely claiming verification is urgently needed. Victims risk identity theft, banking fraud, device hijacking, and financial losses.

Overview of the Scam

Authorities in Ca Mau Province, Vietnam have issued warnings about fraudulent phone calls targeting parents of children aged 6–14. Scammers impersonate police officers and falsely claim that urgent updates or verification of the child's digital identification (eID) information is needed.

How the Scam Works

Scammers build trust through several tactics:

False Impersonation: They pose as police officers responsible for residential registration or public service support
Creating Urgency: They claim the child's information contains errors, lacks validation, or requires immediate verification to avoid complications with records
Building Credibility: They may reference previously collected personal information or use police-like images and uniforms during video calls
Malicious Requests: After gaining trust, they direct victims to:
- Click suspicious links
- Install applications from unknown sources
- Provide personal information as instructed

Risks of Falling Victim

Complying with these requests exposes victims to:

Personal Data Theft: Identity numbers, addresses, and sensitive personal information
Banking Information Compromise: Account numbers, PINs, and OTP authentication codes
Device Hijacking: Remote access and control of smartphones or computers
Financial Loss: Unauthorized transfers from bank accounts

Warning Signs and How to Identify Scams

Legitimate eID Registration Process: Digital identification registration for children aged 6–14 (Level 2) follows strict official procedures. Citizens should never follow instructions from unknown callers or social media contacts
Suspicious Requests: Legitimate authorities never request payment for "authentication fees," "activation fees," or "digital ID update fees" over the phone
Dubious Links and Apps: Official government applications should only be downloaded from verified government portals or official app stores

Protection Measures

Avoid Unknown Links: Never click links from unverified callers
Reject Suspicious Apps: Download applications only from official app stores
Guard Personal Information: Never share passwords, OTP codes, banking details, or personal data with unverified individuals
Refuse All Money Requests: Never transfer money to unknown parties or unverified authorities, regardless of claimed reasons (fees, activation, updates, etc.)
Verify Directly: If you receive a suspicious call, remain calm and contact your nearest police station directly to confirm the information

Reporting Fraud

If you suspect fraud:

Collect Evidence: Save the phone number, text messages, suspicious links, and related information
Report to Authorities: Provide this information to your nearest police office for verification and investigation
Raise Awareness: Educate family and friends about new scam tactics to help prevent cybercrimes in your community