Police Warn Citizens About SMS Scam Posing as Traffic Violations
Vietnam's police have issued a warning regarding a new SMS scam that falsely claims to notify recipients of

The rise of fraudulent activities involving fake links has prompted serious concerns among authorities in Vietnam. This method often involves sending deceptive messages that encourage victims to click on links, which can lead to financial theft. The use of artificial intelligence to create convincing video calls and voice impersonations further complicates the issue, making it easier for scammers to gain the trust of their targets.
According to lawyer Lê Kiên Lương from the Ho Chi Minh City Bar Association, individuals who illegally collect or disseminate personal information, or use harmful links, can face administrative fines under Decree 15/2020/ND-CP, which has been amended by subsequent decrees. Fines can reach tens of millions of VND, alongside mandatory corrective measures.
More seriously, if a fake link is used to trick someone into revealing their account details, passwords, or OTP codes, this could be classified as unauthorized access to computer networks or electronic devices, as outlined in Article 289 of the Penal Code. Such actions can result in imprisonment ranging from six months to three years. If the crime is committed in an organized manner or involves significant financial gain, the maximum penalty could escalate to 20 years in prison.
In cases where individuals discover their accounts have been compromised or have fallen victim to scams, they are advised to preserve evidence by taking screenshots, recording transaction processes, and saving any relevant links and messages. This documentation can be crucial for investigations.
Cybersecurity expert Ngô Minh Hiếu recommends users check any suspicious links or websites through platforms like chongluadao.vn to ensure their online safety. As fraudulent schemes continue to evolve, awareness and vigilance are essential in protecting personal information and financial assets.