The Tainan City Police Department launched a "Fraud Prevention Outreach Train" on April 10th to raise awareness of fraud among high-risk groups, such as the elderly and retirees. Deputy Mayor Ye Zeshan, representing Mayor Huang Weizhe, presided over the launch at the Wangcheng District Activity Center in Anping. Known artist Tan Ai-zhen was invited to serve as an anti-fraud ambassador. The train will visit all 37 administrative districts of the city, educating residents on common fraud schemes like fake investment scams, fake police/official scams, and "guess who I am" scams.
Deputy Mayor Ye Zeshan stated that fraud prevention is a key policy of the city government. The police department and city government agencies are working together, collaborating with convenience stores and financial institutions to combat fraud. In January and February, they successfully blocked fraud totaling 230 million New Taiwan Dollars. Tan Ai-zhen, with her high profile and approachable personality, was chosen as the best ambassador. The city government appreciates her willingness to visit districts to share anti-fraud experiences, thereby increasing public awareness, especially among senior citizens.
Ms. Tan Ai-Chen shares her personal experience of being scammed and offers practical anti-fraud advice and tips. (Photo: Tainan City Government Website)
According to police statistics, Tainan City has reported over 3,100 fraud cases in the first three months of this year, averaging over 1,000 cases per month. Fraud losses in January alone exceeded 700 million New Taiwan Dollars, and in February, they reached over 230 million. The city government holds monthly security meetings, and the mayor personally presents certificates of appreciation to convenience stores and financial institution employees who have helped prevent fraud, recognizing their contributions on the front lines.
Tan Ai-zhen also shared personal experiences of being targeted by fraud, reminding everyone that fraud does not discriminate based on age, education, or profession. Especially, retirees are often targeted by fraudsters. People should remain vigilant and exercise caution when dealing with suspicious investment opportunities and calls.
The police department stated that the "Fraud Prevention Outreach Train" is jointly organized by the police department, the social affairs bureau, the civil affairs bureau, and district offices. The outreach program will take place from April to July, covering all 37 districts. The city encourages public participation. The police also encourage the public to stay informed about the latest fraud information by visiting the Ministry of the Interior's Criminal Investigation Bureau's "165 Anti-Fraud Dashboard" (https://165dashboard.tw/). The dashboard provides case analysis, anti-fraud strategies, and case stories to strengthen individual anti-fraud awareness.
The Anti-Fraud Awareness Touring Campaign is jointly organized by the Police Department, Social Affairs Bureau, Civil Affairs Bureau, and district offices. All residents are welcome to participate enthusiastically. (Photo: Tainan City Government Website)