impersonation

A couple in Chongqing was detained for posing as Meituan delivery drivers and running a street-level begging scam. They falsely claimed to need money for their son’s surgery. Meituan confirmed the man had briefly registered as a rider in 2019 but deactivated his account in 2023. He purchased a uniform online to exploit public sympathy. Meituan warned against impersonating riders and highlighted its support programs for legitimate riders, including financial assistance for critical illnesses.

TikTok warns users about a surge in scams where fraudsters impersonate customer service representatives. These scammers trick users into downloading fake apps, like a bogus “TikTok Meetings” app, and then use screen-sharing to access bank accounts and steal funds. TikTok explicitly states there is no official “TikTok Meetings” app and advises skepticism toward unsolicited requests to download software or transfer money. They also caution against post-shopping festival delivery scams that lead to malware downloads. TikTok emphasizes they will never ask users to download third-party software or share screens.

**CNBC, July 11:** China cracked down on 3,008 fraudulent accounts impersonating state entities like news outlets, government agencies, and SOEs for false advertising, counterfeit sales, and disrupting public order. Enforcement targeted fake news (e.g., “Dynamic News”), forged education bodies (e.g., “Anhui Education Exam”), unauthorized tourism ambassadors (e.g., “Rizhao Cultural Tourism”), and fake postal services (e.g., “Postal Selections”). Platforms must boost verification and reporting systems amid ongoing regulatory pressure. (99 Words)

Douyin, the Chinese TikTok, removed 26 accounts impersonating the “Girl with a Carrying Pole,” a viral sensation. The platform took action after identifying accounts using her name and profile. The student, who gained fame after images of her carrying luggage went viral, confirmed she has no social media accounts and will not create any before university. She is working a part-time job to contribute to her family.