Online Scams in Vietnam: Complete Guide 2026
Vietnam's Ministry of Public Security reported that cybercrime losses exceeded VND 18 trillion (approximately $720 million) in 2025. With over 77 million internet users and rapid digital financial adoption, Vietnam faces a surge in online fraud. The widespread use of Zalo messaging, bank transfers, and social media commerce creates a fertile environment for scammers.
Zalo and Messaging Scams
Zalo, Vietnam's dominant messaging platform with over 75 million users, is heavily exploited. Account hijacking through SIM swapping and OTP theft allows scammers to impersonate victims and message their contacts requesting urgent bank transfers. Fake Zalo customer service accounts also target users.
"Anh/chị ơi, em bị kẹt tiền gấp. Anh/chị chuyển giúp em 5 triệu qua số tài khoản này được không? Em sẽ trả ngay ngày mai." — (Hey, I'm stuck and need money urgently. Can you transfer 5 million to this account? I'll pay back tomorrow.) — A common hijacked Zalo account scam message. Always call the person to verify before transferring.
Banking and Transfer Fraud
Vietcombank, BIDV, Agribank, Techcombank, and VPBank are impersonated in phishing campaigns. Vietnam's free and instant interbank transfer system makes funds irrecoverable once transferred. Scammers combine phone calls, fake bank SMS, and social engineering to convince victims to authorize transfers.
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E-commerce Scams
Shopee Vietnam, Lazada, Tiki, and Facebook/Zalo-based sellers face extensive fraud. Fake sellers collect COD manipulation fees, send empty packages, or send the wrong items. Flash sale scams on platforms during major shopping events (11.11, 12.12) create urgency that leads to hasty purchasing decisions.
Fake Government and Utility Scams
Scammers impersonate electricity companies (EVN), water companies, police, and tax authorities. Messages about unpaid utility bills, traffic fines, and tax obligations lead to phishing pages or prompt direct transfers. Verify all such communications through official channels.
Online Job and Task Scams
"Việc làm online" (online job) scams are rampant in Vietnam. Victims are recruited through social media for "part-time" work involving rating products, processing orders, or completing tasks. Initial small payments build trust before victims are asked to make large "deposits" that they never recover.
Reporting Scams in Vietnam
- Police: 113 (emergency) or visit your local Công an office
- PA05 (Cybercrime Police): Report through local police channels
- VNCERT: vncert.vn — cybersecurity incidents
- State Bank of Vietnam hotline: For banking fraud
Suspicious Zalo message, banking SMS, or job offer? Check it with IsThisAScam.
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