DistantNews
Support us
๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ Taiwan /Technology

Your LINE account could be stolen! Official warns 'this number' is dangerous if given away

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • LINE is warning users about a scam that tricks them into revealing verification codes.
  • Scammers use "children's drawing contests" to lure users to fake LINE websites.
  • Users should complete LINE's account health check and never share verification codes.

LINE is issuing a renewed warning to users about a persistent scam that targets account security by attempting to steal verification codes. The latest fraudulent schemes often masquerade as "children's drawing contests," directing unsuspecting users to counterfeit LINE websites. Once there, victims are prompted to enter their LINE SMS verification codes, which are then used by scammers to hijack their accounts. To combat this threat, LINE urges users to perform a comprehensive "account health check" and to enable the "detect suspicious websites" feature. The messaging service will continue to send reminders through its official "Service Messages" account to users whose account settings are incomplete. Crucially, LINE emphasizes that verification codes are exclusively used by users themselves during new account registration, device changes, or account transfers. The company stresses that any request for a LINE verification code from another person or website constitutes a scam and should be ignored. Users can check their account settings under "My Account" in the "Settings" menu, ensuring their phone number, email address, password, and linked Apple or Google account are up-to-date. Enabling the "detect suspicious websites" function will display a warning below any risky links shared in chats. If users suspect their account has been compromised, they should immediately change their password and disable "Allow login from other devices." If an account is confirmed stolen, users can attempt to recover it by tapping "Log in again" within the LINE app; deleting the app prevents this recovery method. For persistent issues, contacting LINE customer service is advised.

LINE again reminds users not to casually hand over LINE SMS verification codes to others.

โ€” LINEOfficial warning about the scam.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.