TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Criminal Investigation Bureau (刑事局) revealed Thursday (Dec. 11) that online shopping scams have become the leading source of victimization, averaging 452 cases daily in November. Financial losses reached NT$199.7 million (around US$6.4 million), representing a 26% decrease in cases and a 53% reduction in financial losses compared to last year. The bureau continues to monitor evolving scam tactics across digital platforms.
Online shopping scams accounted for 29.9% of all scams, with fake investment scams at 12.93% and fake friendship investment scams at 9.01%. Fake investment scams caused the most financial damage despite their lower frequency, accounting for 42.13% of losses. Scammers often exploit social platforms, fake fan pages, or product listings to lure victims away from e-commerce platforms for private transactions. The tactics continue to evolve across digital channels.
Concert ticket scams have recently targeted popular events, including those featuring K-pop groups such as BLACKPINK and TWICE. Scammers post ticket offers in groups, directing buyers to contact them privately through Messenger, LINE, or Instagram. They create urgency with phrases like "buy now or it'll be gone" and "deposit must be paid today" to pressure victims into quick payments. Scammers disappear once the money is transferred.
Scammers also pose as buyers to deceive sellers, providing fake logistics links and impersonating customer service to steal funds or use accounts for money laundering. They further exploit job seekers by requesting banking details under false pretenses, converting accounts into tools for money laundering. The bureau warned that victims may face legal consequences for unwittingly participating in money laundering schemes.
