Full version link to see details at https://vtvgo.vn/ts/11597823
When shopping at markets, supermarkets, or convenience stores nowadays, we have various payment methods available, such as cash, using bank cards at POS machines, or making payments through wireless technology like Apple Pay and Samsung Pay. However, in recent times, the QR code payment method has been increasingly popular among consumers. According to statistics from the State Bank of Vietnam until the end of July this year, transactions conducted via QR codes have increased by over 120% in terms of quantity and more than 16% in terms of value compared to the same period last year.
Convenient for consumers and convenient for merchants; however, in recent times, there has been a concerning trend where some individuals attach counterfeit payment QR codes onto those of various shops and restaurants to fraudulently steal assets. This is a new form of deception, so users should exercise extreme caution when engaging in transactions involving QR code scanning.
Currently, in many stores, QR codes are often printed and framed at the counter. Some places even duplicate them and stick them in various areas within the store. This practice also creates vulnerabilities that some individuals exploit to carry out fraudulent activities by attaching counterfeit codes.
The owner of a vermicelli and tofu restaurant in Dong Da district, Hanoi, stated that the restaurant serves approximately 150 meals a day, with most customers opting for online payments, which is very convenient but also carries risks. On several occasions, she has lost money due to believing in fake bank transfer receipts. The most recent incident was when individuals attached counterfeit QR codes to the restaurant's payment QR codes.
Stores, restaurants, and even street vendors, such as mobile coffee sellers like Mr. Tien (in Dong Da district, Hanoi), now commonly use QR codes for payment. Mr. Tien, for example, has affixed up to three different QR codes. However, due to the current prevalence of QR code fraud, he plans to reduce the number of payment channels. "I sell 130-150 cups a day. 70% are paid for online. In the future, I will switch to a single channel for easier management," said Mr. Hoang Dinh Tien from Dong Da district, Hanoi.
Observing the reality, in many stores, QR codes are often printed and framed at the counter. Some places even duplicate them and stick them in various areas within the store. This practice also creates vulnerabilities that some individuals exploit by attaching counterfeit codes. According to experts, store owners should carefully review transactions, and the application providers should implement additional solutions to mitigate risks for users.
Many individuals have taken advantage of QR codes displayed outside of businesses to overlay different QR codes in an attempt to deceive and misappropriate assets.
According to statistics from the State Bank of Vietnam, in the first five months of this year, payments through QR code scanning have increased by more than 150% in terms of quantity and over 30% in terms of value compared to the same period in 2022. This payment method continues to demonstrate its convenience in transactions. However, to avoid fraudulent and exploitative activities, users should carefully verify transaction details before scanning QR codes for online money transfers.
To ensure safety and avoid risks like losing your account, experts advise users to only scan QR codes from trusted sources. For QR codes related to money transfers, it's essential to check the recipient's account number before pressing the transfer button. When dealing with QR codes that contain website links, only use your phone's camera to scan them, and carefully inspect the URL to ensure it starts with "https" and belongs to a familiar domain. If not, absolutely refrain from clicking on these links.