State Bank of Vietnam issues warning on rising digital financial fraud including fake links, QR codes and AI deepfakes

The State Bank of Vietnam’s Payment Department published a consumer alert on the increasing incidence and sophistication of high-tech crime and financial fraud conducted through electronic channels, setting out practical steps for individuals to protect their information and assets. The Bank highlighted common tactics including impersonation of banks via messages, dissemination of fake links and QR codes, impersonation of police or courts, overseas recruitment scams marketed as “light work, high pay”, and the use of AI and deepfake technology to obtain personal data and steal funds. It advised customers not to share passwords, one-time passwords (OTPs), card numbers, CVV or biometric data, to avoid unknown links, QR codes and apps, and to verify information via banks’ official channels. Additional precautions include regularly changing passwords, enabling balance change alerts, setting transfer limits, and contacting bank hotlines and the police where suspicious signs are detected, as well as exercising caution with “super-profit” investment pitches and overseas job offers. The State Bank of Vietnam indicated it will coordinate with credit institutions to continue implementing technical, legal and communications measures to prevent high-tech crime.