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Caution is advised regarding brand-name SMS impersonation scams. Police in Vinh Long Province reported on March 23 that fraud via messages impersonating brands (SMS Brandname) has been increasing, with more sophisticated tactics and significant asset losses.
Authorities said that beyond faking message content, criminals also use high-tech devices to send messages directly to mobile phones, catching many people off guard.
Police reported that offenders use fake base transceiver stations (BTS) to impersonate banks, companies, mobile network operators, or other reputable organizations in order to spread mass messages.
By broadcasting signals at high intensity, these devices can cause nearby mobile phones to connect automatically without users realizing it. The messages then appear with familiar Brandname branding, creating the impression that the communications are official.
Police added that the broadcasting devices are often installed on cars or motorcycles and move through densely populated areas such as markets, shopping centers, bus stations, or industrial zones to expand their reach.
Using this method, tens of thousands of messages can be disseminated daily. The message content is typically designed to provoke worry or curiosity, including phrases such as “your account has a problem,” “verify your information,” “you have won a prize,” or “update data urgently,” often accompanied by fake links resembling the official website to lure recipients into logging in and providing personal information.
Police noted that messages appearing under a brand name may lead recipients to assume they are legitimate notices. However, careful readers can identify anomalies.
To prevent losses, authorities advise people not to provide sensitive information such as passwords, OTP codes, account numbers, or personal data via SMS, email, or unofficial online platforms. Recipients should treat every link received via SMS with caution, even if the message displays a familiar brand name.
If a suspicious message is received, police recommend contacting the bank or relevant organization directly through official channels to verify the information. If any irregular signs appear, keep the evidence and report to the telecom operator managing the subscriber and to the police for timely assistance.
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