TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan faces a significant scamming problem, with citizens losing an estimated NT$400 million to NT$500 million (around US$12.1 million to US$15.1 million) daily, according to Business Today's (今周刊) survey released on Wednesday (Jan. 15). Among the cases, investment scams account for 76.9% of these losses, making them the most prevalent type of fraud.
Despite high confidence in detecting scams, many, particularly those with higher education and income, fall victim multiple times. The survey revealed that 31.9% of scam attempts reached the public through mobile calls, followed by social media and text messages, each exceeding 23%. Investment scams make up 31.3% of these fraud attempts, with shopping and impersonation scams following at 15.4% and 10.7%, respectively. The study of 52 victims showed that 76.9% encountered investment scams, while over half faced multiple scam types.
Taiwan's professional, scientific, and technical services sectors, along with the financial and insurance industries, exhibit high confidence in fraud detection. However, only 15% report suspected scams and 82% of victims get scammed despite verification efforts. Social media platforms serve as a hotbed for scams, with 60% of victims receiving fraudulent messages through these channels.
Public sentiment favors stricter penalties for platforms failing to remove scam ads, with over 70% supporting fines. While the government has promoted anti-fraud measures, citizens remain dissatisfied with the results, urging harsher penalties and more robust enforcement. As awareness grows, 74% of respondents expressed willingness to register real estate to prevent fraud, highlighting a growing demand for preventive measures.
