China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology Warns of Fake Digital Yuan App Scams

According to PANews, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) in China has recently exposed a new scam involving fake digital yuan apps. These counterfeit apps imitate the icons, background images, and promotional slogans of legitimate apps to create the impression of being an official app. The scams typically have the following characteristics: firstly, they use the guise of national welfare distribution to lure victims into spreading the fake app by offering bonuses for referrals; secondly, they entice the public to register with their real names by offering so-called 'welfare funds,' thereby obtaining sensitive personal information; and thirdly, they set up dedicated customer service group pages to divert victims to less common social media tools, where they defraud them of their money. The MIIT reminds the public to be cautious of potential scams involving apps. It advises not to click on unknown links, scan unfamiliar QR codes, or browse strange websites, and to download apps through official channels. Additionally, when investing or managing finances, it is important to choose qualified and legitimate channels, and to be wary of any recommendations claiming to have 'inside information,' 'high returns,' or 'risk-free' investments. The authenticity of national welfare policies should be confirmed through official channels.