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With the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival 2025 (DIFF 2025) fast approaching, attracting millions of domestic and international tourists, the Da Nang City Police have issued an urgent warning about the increasingly complex online fraud situation. Taking advantage of the high demand for accommodation and tickets to the event, many high-tech criminals are setting traps online to steal people's money.
According to information from the Da Nang City Police, fraudsters are increasingly employing sophisticated tactics. They focus on creating extremely attractive offers such as selling all-inclusive tour packages, fireworks tickets, or hotel rooms at prices significantly lower than the market rate. These offers are widely publicized on social media platforms, targeting tourists' desire for "bargains."
Da Nang City Police advise customers not to transfer deposit money to individuals/organizations of unknown origin.
After the "prey" takes the bait and expresses interest, the perpetrators will ask the victim to transfer a deposit (usually 30% to 50%) to "reserve a spot" or "complete the transaction." However, as soon as they receive the money, they will find various reasons to refuse to return it or claim the victim provided insufficient information, then suddenly cut off all contact, leaving the victim with no way to recover the lost money.
The sophistication of these scams has escalated further as criminals have not hesitated to create fake websites and fan pages of reputable travel companies, or even impersonate official festival information pages. These fake websites and fan pages are elaborately designed, easily misleading users.
Specifically, these individuals posted advertisements on social media, offering discounted tour packages, fireworks tickets, or hotel rooms.
To further build trust, they also use fake receipts and invoices as proof of transactions, persuading buyers to transfer the full payment. As soon as the money is transferred to the account, the perpetrators quickly block communication and erase all traces, making it extremely difficult to track them down.
These scammers exploit tourists' desire for cheap deals and lack of thorough research to successfully carry out their fraudulent activities.
Given the increasingly complex nature of online fraud, the Cyber Security and High-Tech Crime Prevention Department of the Da Nang City Police is strongly advising residents and tourists to exercise extreme caution. Tourists should only book services with reputable agencies, always prioritizing booking tours, hotel rooms, airline tickets, and fireworks viewing tickets from businesses with clear business licenses, legal operating permits, and positive user reviews. Furthermore, be wary of "super cheap" offers, as these are often indicators of fraudulent schemes.
Tourists need to work together and remain vigilant to ensure a vibrant festival season.
Be especially cautious when asked to transfer money through social media channels like Facebook or Zalo if you cannot verify the identity and trustworthiness of the recipient. Finally, always carefully check website links, fanpage information, and contact phone numbers to ensure they are legitimate sources and not fake pages.
Upon detecting any unusual signs or suspecting fraud, immediately notify the nearest police station for prompt assistance. The vigilance and swift action of each individual will contribute to preventing and deterring fraudulent activities, ensuring the successful and safe organization of DIFF 2025.
