Recently, some individuals who participated in Instagram giveaway activities reported receiving notifications claiming they had "won a grand prize." However, to claim the prize, they were asked to complete "online financial account verification," only to discover it was a scam.
Fraudsters posing as giveaway customer service representatives instructed winners to join a specified LINE account for further communication. Claiming the winner's account was "abnormal," they required online banking verification. During the scam process, the fraudsters guided victims via phone calls, sometimes requesting screen sharing. They progressively directed victims to transfer their funds out of their accounts. One victim revealed that after following the instructions for "verification," their savings were withdrawn bit by bit. In the end, they not only failed to receive the prize but also lost their entire savings.
Endless Scam Tactics: Do Not Fall for Them
Authorities warn that this type of fake giveaway scam primarily operates through social media platforms. Fraudsters use the lure of high-value prizes to attract victims and later claim "abnormal account handling" to trick them into operating online banking or providing personal financial information.
Fake lottery scams use the excuse of "abnormal account handling" to trick victims into operating online banking or providing personal financial information (Photo: Taken from MyGoPen fact-checking website).
How to Avoid Falling Victim to Such Scams
Experts advise that any notification requesting you to join LINE, operate online banking, or provide personal information via video call is likely a scam. Victims should immediately cease contact and seek help from their bank or the 165 Anti-Fraud Hotline.
To stay safe, individuals participating in online giveaways should remain vigilant, verify the authenticity of the event organizer, and never share financial account details or follow unclear instructions.
