Taiwan Police Uncover Scam Exploiting Baishatun Mazu Pilgrimage

As the revered Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage continues its journey, a shadow of deception has fallen upon the event, with authorities in Taiwan exposing a sophisticated scam preying on the goodwill and generosity associated with the tradition. The Tongxiao Police Precinct has identified a fraudulent scheme that leverages the 'jieyuan' (結緣), or 'affinity-building' practice, where participants often distribute gifts or blessings.

“

Police are warning the public not to click on links from unknown sources to avoid being scammed.

This particular scam operates by impersonating a well-known delivery service, such as 7-11's 'Maihuo Bian' (賣貨便). Victims are contacted with claims that their online store "has not yet completed financial certification," prompting them to click on a provided link. This link leads to a fake interface where scammers, posing as customer service, then guide the victim through a process requiring sensitive information, including bank account details, passwords, and OTP verification codes. The lure is often the promise of high-value items like mobile phones, presented as 'affinity gifts'.

“

The scam involves sending high-value mobile phones as bait under the guise of 'affinity gifts' to defraud people.

From a Taiwanese perspective, the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage is a deeply significant cultural and religious event, drawing hundreds of thousands of participants. The exploitation of such a sacred and communal occasion for criminal purposes is particularly egregious. The police's proactive internet patrol and swift public warning reflect a commitment to protecting citizens from evolving cyber threats. This incident serves as a stark reminder that even during times of spiritual devotion and community bonding, vigilance against online fraud is essential.

“

The scam method is a common 'fake seller/delivery service malicious link' scam. If you click the link provided by the scammer, a fake 7-11 Maihuo Bian customer service representative will claim that your store 'has not yet completed financial certification' and ask you to follow their instructions.

Police Chief Su Lip-tsung emphasized the need for caution in the digital age, urging the public never to click on links from unknown sources, regardless of the promised reward. He stressed the importance of verifying information and immediately reporting any suspicious activity to the police via the 110 or 165 anti-fraud hotlines. The authorities' efforts aim to safeguard the public's trust and prevent financial losses, ensuring that the spirit of 'jieyuan' remains a genuine expression of goodwill, untainted by criminal exploitation.

“

During the process, they will use rhetoric to persuade you that you need to 'enter your bank account, password, and OTP verification information'. After you enter it, you will find that the money in your account has been transferred.