Three Steps Scammers Use to Hijack Your LINE Account
STEP 1: The scammer first hacks into your friend A’s Facebook or other messaging account and, posing as your friend, asks for your phone number.
STEP 2: Once you provide your phone number, the scammer uses a computer to register a new account with your phone number. At this point, LINE will send a verification code via SMS to your phone.
STEP 3: The scammer then claims they need help retrieving their LINE account and asks you to forward the verification code. Once you provide the four-digit verification code, the scammer successfully hijacks your LINE account and sends messages to your friends and family, asking for money.
Don't share the verification code to prevent your LINE account from being hacked. (Image sourced from 165 Anti-Fraud FB)
How to Prevent This Scam
If you discover that your LINE account has been hacked, immediately go to LINE App → More → Settings → My Account and uncheck "Allow Login from Other Devices," then change your password.
If your password has already been changed by the scammer, visit LINE’s official website (https://contact.line.me/) and fill out the "Problem Report Form." If your account is confirmed as stolen, LINE will contact you within 24 hours and provide assistance based on your case.
The four-digit verification code sent via SMS by LINE is as important as your account password. Do not share it with anyone or help someone else receive their code. Additionally, if you receive a LINE message from a friend asking for money or game points, always call the person directly or dial Anti-Fraud Hotline 165 for verification.
