A sophisticated scam involving the download of fake Google Authenticator security apps has emerged.

Among the five online scams that the public is advised to be vigilant about, the Information Security Department (Ministry of Information and Communications) particularly noted a scam that lures users into downloading fake Google Authenticator security applications to steal data.

Looking back at the online fraud situation in Vietnam and internationally during the week of August 5th to 11th, the Cybersecurity Department assesses that impersonation scams are increasing sharply. This assessment is also clearly reflected in the scam tactics and methods that the Cybersecurity Department has compiled and recommended to users this week:

Google Authenticator is a well-known and reliable multi-layered security application. Because of this, some individuals have taken advantage of users' carelessness and carried out scams using fake Google Authenticator applications.

Specifically, recently, the internet has seen many advertisements urging users to download the Google Authenticator app to increase security for their personal devices; however, this is actually a fake app created by scammers to deceive users.

When users click on these ads, they are redirected to a fake Google website with the URL “chromeweb-authenticators.com”. Upon accessing this fake website, the application is automatically downloaded from the open-source code hosting service Github and attacks the user's device, spreading malware and stealing important data.

To avoid becoming a victim of this scam, the Information Security Department advises people to be highly vigilant when downloading security applications to their devices; Do not download applications from unknown sources or unofficial websites, only download applications from the CH Play system for Android devices and the App Store for iOS devices. In cases where applications can only be downloaded from external sources, users are advised to check the domain names of websites on tinnhiemmang.vn and tracuutenmien.gov.vn.

In addition, the Information Security Department also warned people to be cautious when booking cheap airline tickets and tours online; scams involving impersonating hotel or homestay staff to defraud people of deposit money; impersonating educational institutions to trick students into transferring money for dormitory registration; and property theft through impersonation of immigration authorities.