Alipay scams are becoming increasingly common, with fraudsters finding new ways to exploit app features to deceive users.
Recently, six suspects were arrested in Shanghai for defrauding victims of over 100,000 yuan using a specific Alipay function.
Here’s how the scam unfolded and what you can do to protect yourself.
What Are Alipay Scams?
Alipay, a popular third-party payment app owned by Alibaba Group, is widely used in China for online transactions.
However, its convenience has also made it a target for scammers.
Alipay scams often involve exploiting app features to trick users into transferring money or sharing sensitive information.
How Scammers Exploited an Alipay Function
According to police, the suspects used an Alipay feature that allows users to pay for another person’s money transfer or expenses.
This function was manipulated to connect the victims’ accounts to the scammers’ accounts, resulting in financial losses.
One victim, a woman surnamed Li, reported the fraud to police after losing 6,050 yuan (approximately $940).
Li, who earns money by playing computer games with online users, was contacted by a man who claimed he wanted to book her services for a month.
The man insisted on using the Alipay function for payment.
To gain her trust, the scammer showed Li a fake screenshot of his Alipay account, which appeared to have a large balance.
However, the account he connected to Li’s had no money at all. After Li used the Alipay function as requested, she realized she had been scammed and received no payment in return.
Following her report, police launched an investigation and apprehended the suspects in Bozhou City, Anhui Province.
Since July, the group had scammed over 20 people, stealing more than 100,000 yuan in total.
Steps to Protect Yourself from Alipay Scams
To avoid falling victim to Alipay scams, follow these tips:
- Verify Payment Requests: Always double-check the identity of the person requesting payment. Avoid using unfamiliar app functions unless you fully understand how they work.
- Beware of Fake Screenshots: Scammers often use fake screenshots to create a false sense of trust. Verify account balances directly within the app.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect fraud, report it to Alipay and local authorities immediately.
- Enable Security Features: Use Alipay’s security settings, such as transaction limits and two-factor authentication, to protect your account.
What Alipay Is Doing to Prevent Scams
In response to this case, Shanghai police have asked Alipay to cooperate in the investigation and take measures to prevent similar scams in the future.
Users are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the platform.
Conclusion
Alipay scams can happen to anyone, but staying informed and cautious can help you avoid becoming a victim.
Always verify payment requests, be wary of unfamiliar app functions, and report fraud immediately.
By taking these steps, you can protect yourself and your finances.