Unknown or unidentified links are one of the ubiquitous security threats on the internet. They can be shared through email, text messages, social media, instant messaging, and other channels. With the continuous evolution of modern communication tools, the disguises of unknown links have become increasingly sophisticated, sometimes to the point of being indistinguishable. These links often exploit users’ curiosity, fear, or greed to entice them into clicking, leading to potential security risks.

I. Beware of unknown links

For example:

As times progress, the methods of fraud are also constantly evolving. Many of you have likely received messages from WeChat or QQ contacts asking for help to vote for or like a post. In such situations, please stay highly alert. Once you click on these unknown links, your photo gallery, contact list, and personal privacy may be accessed by criminals, who could then use the information to defraud you.

II. Analyze the scam

1. Phishing in a wide range

Fraudsters employ various tactics such as posting enticing content on social platforms like WeChat and QQ, or sending links to potential victims through private messages, chats, or text messages, guiding them to click on these links.

2. Stealing personal information

Once victims click on the link, they are directed to a phishing website that prompts them to enter personal information, such as their ID number, bank card details, etc. These phishing sites are hard to distinguish because they often closely resemble legitimate websites. When victims input their personal information, fraudsters steal this data and use it to conduct further fraudulent activities.

3. Initiating the scam

Once fraudsters obtain a victim's personal information, they may coerce the victim to pay a ransom through threats and intimidation. If the victim refuses, the fraudsters will threaten to disclose their personal information or use the information for other cases. 

III.Take preventive measures

1. Do not click on unknown links

If you receive links from strangers or unfamiliar websites, please do not click on them to avoid being redirected to malicious sites.

2. Do not download unknown files

If you are uncertain about the source or content of a file, please do not download or open it indiscriminately to prevent the malware contained.

3. Be cautious about entering personal information

Please never enter your personal information on unreliable websites or reveal details to strangers.