Authorities in Hoa Binh are investigating a fraudulent online scheme in which scammers posed as shamans to sell fake love charms and spiritual services via social media.

The group, operating since early 2024, tricked victims into sending personal clothing and money for staged rituals.

Fake spiritual services to lure victims

The Hoa Binh Provincial Police and the Department of Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Prevention have launched a criminal investigation into the online fraud ring.

The group set up social media pages promoting free ‘love charms’, using photos and videos of traditional Mường shamans in Lạc Sơn District to build credibility.

Once victims expressed interest, the scammers contacted them via Zalo, offering pre-scripted consultations and claiming they could:

Reunite lost lovers

Improve relationships

Remove curses and bad luck

Attract wealth and success

To make their services appear authentic, the group asked victims to mail their clothing to an address in Lạc Sơn, Hoa Binh, claiming it was needed for rituals. In return, victims received edited videos of fake ceremonies featuring dubbed prayers and staged footage.

How the scam worked

After gaining their victims’ trust, the group demanded payments ranging from 300,000 VND to 4 million VND ($12–$160) for completing the rituals.

They then collected money through multiple bank accounts, ensuring their activities remained difficult to trace. Investigators estimate that the group earned between 50 million and 70 million VND ($2,000–$2,800) per month through this scam, using the funds for personal expenses.

As authorities expand their investigation, the Hoa Binh Provincial Police urge anyone who has fallen victim to this scam to report their case for further legal action.

PV