Refer China: Scam Targeting Foreigners Uncovered in City, Several Arrested

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Scam Targeting Foreigners Uncovered in City, Several Arrested

SHAOGUAN, CHINA — Authorities in Shaoguan have dismantled a cross-border scam operation targeting foreign nationals, resulting in multiple arrests and court-issued sentences. The suspects were found to have exploited social media platforms to commit financial fraud under the guise of investment advice.

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According to the Lechang People's Court, on March 9, 2024, Zhang and several associates used mobile phones and computers to bypass China's internet firewall and access overseas social networking platforms. Disguised as financial and cryptocurrency influencers, they added unsuspecting foreigners as friends and directed them to invest through counterfeit cryptocurrency platforms.

One victim, a foreign national, suffered a financial loss amounting to 4,619.90 yuan (approximately USD $640).

Following the exposure of the scheme, the suspects' families repaid the full amount of the illicit gains. However, legal proceedings continued. The court ruled that the individuals involved had committed the crime of fraud. Zhang and his accomplices received prison sentences ranging from six to eight months, in addition to monetary fines.

Authorities have emphasized that defrauding foreign nationals is equally punishable under Chinese law. "There is no legal gray zone overseas, and the belief that scamming foreigners is not a crime is entirely incorrect," said a spokesperson for the local judiciary.

Officials also reminded residents that virtual currencies do not possess legal status in China. Citizens are urged to exercise caution when engaging in financial investments and to avoid unverified platforms. Any suspicious activities should be promptly reported to the police.

Source: 韶关市中级人民法院