Key Points:
- Recently, there has been an increase in fraud cases involving individuals impersonating bank employees, police officers, customs officials, or consulate staff.
- To avoid falling victim, if you receive a call discussing financial matters or a suspicious phone call, hang up immediately and consult with family, friends, or the police.
Details:
- In August 2024, we issued an alert regarding scams involving individuals posing as bank employees or police officers in our jurisdiction. Recently, we have received several reports of fraudsters impersonating Japanese customs officials. These individuals make phone calls in Japanese, claiming that “you are involved in a crime,” and demand money or personal information.
- Special fraud schemes are becoming increasingly sophisticated and complex each year. Fraud groups work in teams to deceive victims and steal personal information or money using various tactics. Recently, victims have included not only the elderly but also a wide range of age groups. Do not assume you are immune to such scams; remain vigilant at all times.
- Examples of reported scam tactics include the following:
- (1) Impersonating Japanese customs officials, asking for names, addresses, and dates of birth (sometimes the caller provides the victim’s information to confirm it).
- (2) Claiming that illegal drugs were found in a package sent under the victim’s name and stating that the police need to be notified. The caller then says they will transfer the call to the police.
- (3) The call is connected to someone claiming to be the police, who accuses the victim’s bank account of being involved in a money laundering case. The “police” claim they will conduct an online investigation and ask for the victim’s bank account details.
- (4) The caller then claims that the victim’s innocence must be proven and states that they will consult with a prosecutor before contacting the victim again.
- Preventive Measures to Avoid Falling Victim to Scams
- Bank employees, police officers, customs officials, embassies, or consulates will never threaten arrest or deportation, nor will they demand money.
- Scammers may change their claims depending on the situation, such as pretending to be a “bank employee,” “police officer,” or “customs official.” However, if you are asked for money or personal information related to matters you have no knowledge of, consider it highly likely to be a scam and remain calm.
- (1) If you receive a suspicious phone call, hang up and directly call the organization the caller claimed to represent to verify the facts. (Do not trust caller ID, even if the number appears legitimate; it may be spoofed.)
- (2) Do not provide money (e.g., bank account details) or personal information (e.g., credit card numbers or Social Security numbers) under any circumstances, even if instructed by the caller.
- (3) Avoid posting personal information on social media or the internet.
If you receive a suspicious call or have already provided money or personal information, report it to the police immediately and inform our office.
Comment