Many people have recently received LINE messages from friends or family asking them to vote in children's drawing contests, pet popularity competitions, or photography contests. Although these requests appear to be simple favors, they may actually be scams designed to steal LINE accounts. The 165 Anti-Fraud Center reminds the public that if a voting page asks users to log in to LINE or enter their mobile phone number, LINE password, or SMS verification code, they should immediately become suspicious to avoid having their account stolen.
According to the 165 Anti-Fraud Center, scammers often begin by stealing someone's LINE account and then impersonating the victim to send fake voting links to everyone on their contact list. Because the messages come from a familiar friend or relative, recipients are more likely to trust them and follow the instructions, resulting in their own LINE accounts being taken over and used to deceive even more people.
The Anti-Fraud Center emphasizes that legitimate online voting activities will never require users to provide their LINE password or SMS verification code. Even if the message comes from someone you know, you should first confirm with that person by phone, video call, or another communication method before clicking any link.
Police remind the public to remember three important rules: Do not click suspicious links, do not enter your LINE password, and never provide your SMS verification code. If you believe your LINE account has been compromised, change your password immediately, notify your contacts to prevent further scams, and call the 165 Anti-Fraud Hotline if you encounter any suspicious situation.
