The police in Dong Nai have recently issued an important warning about the risks of phone calls made through the popular messaging app Zalo. Citizens are urged to be vigilant, especially when receiving video calls from accounts that appear to belong to friends or family. Scammers may utilize advanced technologies, including AI and deepfake tools, to create convincing impersonations.

According to the police, these fraudsters can take over social media accounts like Facebook and Zalo, using publicly available images and voices to mimic the identities of their victims. They often reach out to the victims' friends and family, presenting urgent scenarios such as needing money for an emergency or being in a dire situation at an airport.

Recognizing Scam Calls

There are several signs that may indicate a scam:

• Unusual Audio or Visual Cues: The caller's face may appear distorted or their movements unnatural, and the audio may not sync properly with their lip movements.
• Short Calls: Scammers often make excuses for why they cannot stay on the call long, citing weak network signals or low battery.
• Urgent Requests for Money: They may pressure victims to transfer money immediately, insisting that they cannot contact anyone else.
• Unusual Payment Accounts: If the account details for money transfer do not match known information, this could be a red flag.
• Inability to Verify Information: If the caller avoids answering personal questions that only the real person would know, it’s likely a scam.

Prevention Tips

The Dong Nai police recommend a four-step verification process:

• Hang Up: Do not rush to transfer money; take a moment to think.
• Verify Through Other Channels: Call the person back using a known number or a different communication method.
• Ask Verification Questions: Inquire about shared memories or personal information only known to you and the other person.
• Double-Check Transaction Details: Verify all account information before proceeding with any transfer.

It’s crucial to remember that just because a name matches a loved one’s does not mean the request is legitimate. Scammers can manipulate accounts and use various methods to conceal their activities. The police emphasize the importance of safeguarding personal information and being cautious about sharing images or details on social media.