Beware of Zalo Scams: How to Spot Impersonation Messages

The scam tactic of hacking Zalo accounts and then messaging relatives and friends to borrow money is becoming increasingly common. Equip yourself with these skills to avoid becoming a victim.

Scammers often use urgent excuses to pressure you.

The scam scenario usually begins with someone's Zalo account being hacked. Then, the fraudster uses that very account to message people in the contact list, making up an urgent reason to ask for a loan.

Warning Signs of a Scam

• Urgent reasons for borrowing money: These are often stories like 'need money urgently for hospital fees,' 'my bank transfer failed,' 'stuck in traffic and need money now,'... designed to prevent you from having time to think.
• Refusing calls: When you call to verify, the scammer will decline and make excuses like 'I'm in a meeting,' 'my phone's mic is broken,' 'I'm in a noisy place and can't hear,'...
• Constant rushing: They will repeatedly message you, urging you to transfer the money as quickly as possible.
• Unfamiliar bank account number: The receiving bank account does not belong to the person you know, with the excuse that they are 'borrowing someone else's account because mine is having issues.'

What to Do When You Receive a Suspicious Message?

The Golden Rule: Absolutely do not transfer money. Instead, immediately call the person's mobile number directly to verify. If they don't answer, try contacting them through another channel (Facebook, call a mutual relative...) to check. Never trust a text message 100%.

If you confirm it is a scam, immediately inform the person whose account was hacked and other mutual friends so they can be on alert.

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