In the “Weekly Scam Alert” report covering January 6–12, the Authority of Information Security (under the Ministry of Information and Communications) warned the public about online scams.

These include scams targeting electricity users, misinformation about e-commerce tax policies, and the resurgence of fraudulent job offers promising high pay for minimal work.

A familiar scam with new victims

Recently, a resident of Cam Pha City in Quang Ninh Province lost VND 1.7 billion ($70,900) after joining an online collaboration program that promised high earnings for boosting engagement on an e-commerce platform.

Fraudsters typically create fake Facebook fan pages advertising services for setting up online stores or recruiting collaborators for e-commerce platforms like Shopee and Lazada.

The scams often involve using fake Facebook accounts to lure victims into opening online stores or performing tasks like purchasing goods.

The goal is to exploit these interactions to misappropriate funds.

Authorities have confirmed that platforms like Shopee and Lazada do not recruit collaborators for tasks such as engagement boosting, and any such recruitment offers are scams.

Public warnings from the Authority of Information Security

The public is advised to be wary of job offers promising high income for little effort or requiring no qualifications.

It is crucial to verify the legitimacy of job offers through official sources and avoid relying on unverified or unclear announcements.

Additionally, individuals should never share personal information or banking details with unknown parties.

Online accounts should be secured with two-factor authentication, and passwords should be updated regularly.

If someone suspects they have fallen victim to a scam, they should immediately report it to relevant authorities or consumer protection organizations to prevent further losses.

Misinformation about e-commerce taxes

In addition to scams, social media platforms have seen a rise in fake news about e-commerce tax policies, causing public confusion.

On January 9, a false notice claimed that starting January 1, 2025, tax authorities would have access to all personal bank accounts to collect a 10% tax on transactions marked as "BUY-SELL."

Some online sellers have even urged buyers to label payment transfers with only their name to avoid triggering the alleged tax.

Others have falsely stated that sellers will deduct 10% of transaction amounts labeled with "BUY-SELL" for tax remittance.

Official clarification from tax authorities

The Ho Chi Minh City Tax Department has dismissed these claims as baseless.

The General Department of Taxation confirmed that the rumor about tax authorities accessing personal accounts to impose a 10% tax is entirely false and not in accordance with Vietnam’s tax regulations.

Authorities have vowed to crack down on tax fraud and misinformation, emphasizing strict penalties for those who spread false information that incites fear or disrupts public trust.

The Authority of Information Security has urged the public to remain cautious about unverified information circulating on social media.

People should rely on official channels to obtain accurate updates from government agencies and organizations.

Furthermore, individuals are encouraged to verify any information before sharing it to avoid spreading falsehoods that may cause unnecessary panic or lead to legal risks.

Van Anh