How to Avoid Online Scams in China (Fake Wi-Fi, Phishing Websites, etc.)

When traveling in China, it is crucial to protect your personal information and financial security. Below is a comprehensive prevention guide targeting online scams:

1. Preventing Fake Public Wi-Fi

1. Choose Trustworthy Wi-Fi Sources
2. Prioritize using official Wi-Fi provided by airports, hotels, large shopping malls (usually requiring a password from staff).

3. Avoid connecting to suspicious open networks (such as "Free Airport Wi-Fi," "Public Network," etc.).

4. Verify the Authenticity of Wi-Fi

5. In public places, confirm the Wi-Fi name and password with service personnel to avoid connecting to fake hotspots.

6. Some venues post official Wi-Fi QR codes; scanning them to connect is safer.

7. Use a VPN to Encrypt Data

8. Download well-known VPN tools through legitimate channels (such as ExpressVPN, NordVPN) to ensure encrypted data transmission.
9. Avoid logging into bank accounts or entering sensitive information through public Wi-Fi.

2. Identifying and Preventing Phishing Websites

1. Check Website Security
2. Confirm that the URL starts with "https://" and displays a lock icon in the address bar (indicating an encrypted connection).

3. Avoid clicking on links in emails or text messages, especially those involving "winning prizes" or "low-price promotions."

4. Use Official Platforms for Booking Services

5. Book flights, hotels, and attraction tickets through reputable platforms (such as Trip.com, Fliggy, Meituan).

6. Beware of third-party websites with abnormally low prices; verify their authenticity through search engines.

7. Install Security Protection Software

8. Install antivirus software on your mobile phone or computer (such as Tencent Mobile Manager, 360 Security Guard), and enable real-time protection features.

3. Payment Security Guidelines

1. Precautions When Binding Alipay/WeChat Pay
2. Only bind bank cards through the official apps; avoid operating through third-party links.

3. When setting payment passwords, avoid using simple numbers (such as birthdays, consecutive numbers).

4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication

5. Enable "fingerprint/facial recognition" or "SMS verification" functions in WeChat/Alipay to enhance account security.

6. Avoid Payments on Public Devices

7. Do not perform payment operations on internet cafes or hotel public computers to prevent password leaks.

4. Other Key Precautions

1. Beware of Phone Scams

2. If you receive calls from someone claiming to be a "police officer," "bank," or "embassy" asking for transfers or personal information, hang up immediately and report it to the police (call 110).

3. Protect Social Media Accounts

4. Avoid adding strangers as friends on WeChat, QQ, or other social platforms, and do not participate in "lottery" activities with unknown sources.

5. Use Shared Power Banks Cautiously

6. Some malicious power banks may contain data theft programs; prefer well-known brands (such as Monster Charging, Meituan Charging).

5. Emergency Response Measures

1. Freeze Accounts Immediately

2. If you discover abnormal activity in your bank card or payment account, contact your bank immediately (such as Bank of China 95566, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China 95588) to freeze the account.

3. Report to Police and Seek Consular Assistance

4. Call 110 to report to the police and retain relevant evidence (such as transfer records, chat screenshots).
5. If consular assistance is needed, call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Global Consular Protection Hotline +86-10-12308.