Joining hands to combat online scams

The event was under the patronage of the Ministry of Public Security and with media support from Vietnam Cybersecurity Magazine and VCCorp, to spread the message of safe and responsible use of the Internet in the public. 

The talk show brought together experts from the Department of Cybersecurity and Hi-tech Crimes under the Ministry of Public Security, representatives of the National Cybersecurity Association, specialists in psychology and education, as well as key opinion leaders and prominent content creators on the TikTok platform.

At the event, delegates focused on clarifying the nature of deepfake technology, current common scam tactics as well as emerging cybercrime trends in recent times.

Experts also analyzed real-world scenarios, ranging from the impersonation of relatives’ faces and voices to solicit loans or fraudulent transfers to schemes involving fake enterprises or state authorities in order to illegally appropriate people’s assets.

At the talk show, the National Cybersecurity Association warned that people should be cautious when engaging in online transactions, shopping and interactions, particularly during the Lunar New Year period. Their warnings are below:

First, images, voices and videos are no longer sufficiently reliable bases for identity verification. Users should always be vigilant when receiving requests for money transfers, transaction confirmations or the provision of personal information via calls, messages or video, even when such requests appear to come from acquaintances, leaders of organizations or familiar platforms.

Second, deepfake scams are often accompanied by time-pressure scenarios designed to force victims into hasty decisions and bypass necessary verification steps. Pausing to cross-check information through official channels or directly contacting relevant agencies is a decisive factor in minimizing risks.

Third, the protection of personal data is of particular importance, as deepfake technology is only truly effective when fueled by real data. Careless sharing of images, voice recordings and personal information on social media or unverified platforms may inadvertently facilitate sophisticated impersonation schemes.

Fourth, all financial transactions should be conducted strictly through official channels of platforms and payment service providers. Users are advised to minimize off-system transfers, private instructions or transactions via suspicious links and to proactively suspend transactions and immediately contact banks, platforms or competent authorities upon detecting suspicious signs of scams.