3·15 Reminder: Uncover the "Fake Customer Service" Tricks to Protect Your Financial "Wallet"

In recent years, the “Impersonating Customer Service” scam has been spreading rapidly through internet platforms. Criminals impersonate customer service representatives from financial institutions, targeting consumers’ anxieties about repayment pressure and credit report flaws to set traps. Many people suffer heavy losses simply because they trust fake customer service numbers.

These scams follow fixed, layered routines. Criminals register numerous accounts on the internet, distribute fake customer service numbers in bulk, and even purchase private information such as names, ID numbers, and loan records through illegal channels to achieve “precise targeting.” Once a consumer calls these fake numbers, the “customer service” will hit the pain points: claiming they can “negotiate for a repayment extension,” “waive overdue interest,” or inform about “credit limit increases” or “interest rate discounts about to expire”—using these hopes to lower the consumer’s guard and make them see “hope” amid anxiety.

Then, scammers induce victims to download unofficial apps, click phishing links, or request screen sharing, seizing the opportunity to steal key information like bank card numbers, passwords, and verification codes. More covertly, they may ask for transfers to private accounts under the guise of “sincerity deposits,” “security deposits,” or “verifying repayment ability,” even instructing victims to borrow from other platforms and transfer the funds, promising “reimbursement after successful negotiation.” Once the chain of “loan—transfer—disappearance” completes, the money has long been transferred overseas.

Consumers are reminded to remember the “Three Noes and One Many” when facing scams: do not trust customer service numbers from anonymous internet accounts; do not reveal ID numbers, bank passwords, or SMS verification codes; do not transfer money to private accounts; verify multiple times and ask questions. If in doubt, immediately verify through official apps, websites, or registered customer service numbers. Never believe in “private operations.”

Financial security is no small matter; the true firewall is in your mind. Be vigilant against fake customer service numbers and recognize false “negotiation and waiver” schemes. If you are scammed, save evidence immediately and call 110 to report. Let’s work together to create a safe and healthy financial environment.

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Editor: Song Yafang