8.000 nạn nhân bị lừa hơn 300 tỷ đồng: Kịch bản lừa đảo tinh vi, thay đổi liên tục | VTV24

Key Concepts:

• Cross-border scam network: A criminal organization operating across national borders to perpetrate fraud.
• AI deepfakes/manipulation: The use of artificial intelligence to create fake images and videos, making it difficult to verify the identity of callers.
• Molding/grooming victims: A tactic where scammers build trust and rapport with victims over an extended period before executing the scam.
• High-tech scam infrastructure: The use of advanced technology, including dedicated broadcasting stations and AI, to facilitate fraudulent activities.
• Financial losses: Significant monetary damages incurred by victims due to scams.

Summary of Scam Network and Tactics

A transnational scam network, recently dismantled by the Criminal Police Department of the Ministry of Public Security and the Lai Châu Provincial Police, has defrauded over 8,000 victims of more than 300 billion VND. Some individuals lost as much as several billion VND. The investigation revealed sophisticated schemes orchestrated by overseas criminal groups.

Victim Experiences and Scam Scenarios

One victim, a woman identified as "chị," lost nearly 1 billion VND in savings accumulated over 10 years, intended for her children's medical emergencies. She described feeling disoriented and overwhelmed, even contemplating suicide due to the loss. The scam involved perpetrators impersonating delivery company employees, claiming victims had mistakenly transferred money to their accounts. Victims were then instructed to follow the scammers' directions to avoid monthly fees, leading them to fake delivery applications where their bank account savings were completely drained. A victim recounted being instructed by a "director" to enter a code into their bank account, feeling "mesmerized" and compliant with the instructions.

Operational Base and Organization

Investigators identified the scam operations as being based in Cambodia, specifically in the Bocco area of Campos province, approximately 90 kilometers from the Vietnam-Cambodia border. This location hosts scam companies from various countries, reportedly led by Chinese nationals. These operations are supported by a dedicated broadcasting station. Daily, the scammers receive pre-written scripts, with roles assigned to each member. These scripts are frequently updated and translated into multiple languages to target victims globally.

Technological Sophistication and AI Usage

The scam companies are extensively utilizing AI for image manipulation, including deepfakes and editing. This technology is employed to create fabricated caller information, making it impossible for victims to verify the identity of the person they are communicating with, even if they record or screenshot the interaction.

Financial Incentives and Recruitment

The financial incentives for scammers are substantial. Some individuals earn monthly salaries of up to 800 million VND, with additional commissions ranging from 3% to 8% for successful scams. This lucrative income attracts individuals, including Vietnamese nationals, to participate in these operations, with many crossing the border illegally. The allure of money is a primary driver for these individuals to engage in fraudulent activities.

Advanced Equipment and Victim Selection

Scammers have invested in modern equipment and leverage AI for their criminal activities. They meticulously select individuals with specific vocal qualities and communication styles to "mold" or "groom" potential victims. This process can involve engaging with victims for months before initiating the actual scam.

Financial Scale of Operations

The daily revenue for these scam groups averages between 5 million VND and nearly 10 billion VND. Some individuals have been reported to scam as much as 6 billion VND in a single day. In addition to a monthly salary of $1,000 USD, scammers receive commissions of 3% to 8% upon successful victim defrauding.

National Statistics on Online Scams

According to the Ministry of Public Security, from December 2019 to May of the previous year, nearly 20,000 cases and over 17,000 individuals involved in online scams were identified. The total financial loss from these activities exceeded 12,000 billion VND. In the previous year alone, losses from online scams surpassed 4,200 billion VND.

Conclusion

This report highlights the alarming scale and sophistication of transnational online scam networks. The use of advanced technology like AI, coupled with meticulous victim grooming and substantial financial incentives, creates a potent combination for criminal enterprises. The significant financial losses incurred by thousands of victims underscore the urgent need for increased awareness, robust cybersecurity measures, and international cooperation to combat these evolving threats.