Refer China: New scam exploits child care subsidies in China!

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China Central Television (CCTV) has exposed a new scam exploiting the recently announced national child subsidy program, which provides financial support for families with children under age 3.

About the Legitimate Subsidy Program

The policy, introduced on July 28, offers an annual payment of 3,600 yuan ($501) per eligible child under 3, retroactive to January 1. According to the official rollout plan, provinces will begin accepting applications in late August, with nationwide access available by August 31.

How the Scam Works

Fraudsters are posing as officials from the National Health Commission and the Ministry of Finance, sending fake notifications via text messages and social media. These messages contain phishing links designed to steal personal and financial information.

One victim, Mr. Wang from Zhaotong, Yunnan, received a message in his WeChat work group claiming he could apply for the subsidy. The link directed him to a fraudulent page requesting:

His full name and ID number
Bank account details and password
Account balance and verification codes

Initially trusting the message due to its appearance in a professional group chat, Wang grew suspicious when he was notified that his account had been linked to Cloud QuickPass (UnionPay's mobile payment service) on an unknown device. He immediately contacted the police, who confirmed it was a scam. Wang canceled his bank card and alerted colleagues to prevent further victims.

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How to Protect Yourself

Li Wenjuan, a local criminal investigation officer, advised applicants to:

Verify the source – Official announcements come only from government platforms (websites ending in gov.cn).
Never share sensitive details – Legitimate applications will never ask for passwords, verification codes, or facial recognition access.
Beware of urgency tactics – Claims of "limited-time offers" or "expiring soon" are red flags.
Avoid screen-sharing – Scammers may use this to steal information.

What to Do If Targeted

Freeze bank accounts immediately
Preserve all evidence (screenshots, messages)
Report to police or the anti-fraud hotline "96110"

CCTV reminds the public to stay vigilant as fraudsters often exploit policy transitions. Official application channels will open nationwide by August 31.

Source :

Editor: Crystal H