Customer Service Impersonation

A new scam targets older TikTok users by impersonating customer service. Fraudsters use scare tactics, claiming account issues like unauthorized services or security risks, to trick users into downloading software and sharing their screens. They then remotely access devices and steal funds. TikTok warns users that official support will never request software downloads or screen sharing. Users should verify contacts through TikTok’s official channels and be wary of unsolicited service termination requests or fee warnings.

Chinese authorities in Zhejiang Province warned against sophisticated telecom fraud after police in Tongxiang City rescued a woman, Ms. Li, from a scam. Fraudsters, posing as “Douyin customer service,” tricked her into installing a screen-sharing app, gaining control of her phone and linking her bank cards to online platforms. The scam began with a false claim about unwanted live-streaming fees. Police intervened, seizing the remotely controlled phone and preventing financial loss by removing the SIM card. Authorities emphasize similar scams target users across various platforms.