According to a statement from the Judiciary Police (PJ) yesterday, they dismantled two fraudulent “Alipay customer service” call centres in Macau in late April and mid-May respectively.
However, since the beginning of this month, the Judiciary Police (PJ) have received numerous reports from citizens indicating that similar scams have occurred, resulting in at least 23 locals being deceived, with total losses amounting to 1.88 million patacas. Additionally, over 160 citizens have reported fraud by contacting the police through their anti-fraud hotline and app.
PJ spokesman Fong Pok from the Anti-Fraud Coordination Centre noted that scammers are impersonating “Alipay” or “Taobao” customer service representatives, calling victims and informing them in Putonghua that their “financial security insurance” was about to expire, demanding a large fee to extend the insurance coverage. If the victim requests to cancel the insurance, the call is transferred to a “customer service” representative pretending to be from another financial institution. Victims are then manipulated into sharing their screens via communication software and providing bank and credit card information under the pretence of processing the cancellation. Alternatively, they may be asked to transfer money to a designated bank or electronic payment account for “fund review” and “premium payment,” with promises of full refunds. Initially, victims may receive a small refund after making a minor payment, which builds their trust and leads to larger remittances.
Furthermore, Fong added that the Judiciary Police (PJ) have recently received multiple reports about purchases of fraudulent buffet coupons through social media platforms. Since June, 15 citizens have been deceived, losing over 16,000 patacas, while an additional 45 citizens have taken the initiative to report fraudulent activities through the PJ anti-fraud hotline and app. Fraudsters have created fake travel agency, hotel, and restaurant pages on social media, advertising “flash sales” and “low-price promotions” to sell buffet coupons or travel packages, tricking citizens into scanning electronic payment QR codes. To appear credible, the scammers use names and images of real businesses, while the accounts they control remain “unverified.”
The Judiciary Police (PJ) reminded consumers to hang up immediately any calls about “overdue deposit protection services,” as these are likely scams. Fong urged consumers to avoid sharing screens, making video calls, transferring money, or disclosing one’s bank and credit card information with strangers. When purchasing buffet coupons or travel products, he advised consumers to choose reputable businesses only and verify transactions through official channels. Fong also said that consumers ought to be cautious of social media advertisements that offers products or services that are significantly below market prices, and avoid engaging with unfamiliar or unverified online accounts. If in doubt, consumers should use the PJ “Anti-Fraud Programme” to assess risks, report suspicious activities, or contact the PJ anti-fraud hotline on 8800 7777 or the reporting hotline on 993 for assistance, Fong said.
Judiciary Police (PJ) spokesman Fong Pok from the Anti-Fraud Coordination Centre looks on during yesterday’s regular press conference. – Photo: Ada Lei
