How to avoid online scams (e.g., fake Wi-Fi, phishing sites)?

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AM 06:21 2025/05/01

During your travels in China, ensuring network security is crucial. Below is a comprehensive prevention guide tailored for foreign tourists:

Prioritize Trusted Sources of Wi-Fi
Hotel/Airport/High-Speed Railway Station Wi-Fi: Choose Wi-Fi networks with official identification, and confirm the name with staff before connecting (e.g., "Beijing Airport Free Wi-Fi").
Carrier Data Plans: It is recommended to activate international roaming or purchase a local Chinese SIM card (such as China Mobile or China Unicom). Using mobile data is safer.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Try to avoid connecting to password-free Wi-Fi in malls or cafes, especially those with names like "Free Wi-Fi" or containing spelling errors.
Use a VPN to Enhance Security
China restricts access to some international websites, requiring the use of a VPN to access Google, Facebook, etc. Choose reputable paid VPN services (such as ExpressVPN, NordVPN), and avoid free VPNs that may steal your data.
Turn Off Automatic Connection Features
In your phone settings, turn off "Automatic Wi-Fi Connection" to prevent your device from automatically connecting to suspicious networks.

Verify Website Authenticity
Domain Name Check: Official websites usually end with ".com" or ".cn". Be cautious of typos in fake websites (e.g., "taoba0.com").
HTTPS Encryption: Ensure the website address has a "🔒" icon and begins with "https://".
Official Channels Preferred: Use WeChat Mini Programs, Alipay, or official apps (such as Ctrip, Fliggy) to book services, avoiding clicking on ad links from search engines.
Beware of Fraudulent SMS/Mail
If you receive notifications such as "flight cancellation" or "bank card abnormality," directly contact the airline or bank's official customer service (do not click on links within the SMS).
Some fraudulent SMS messages in China may appear to come from numbers starting with "+86", so vigilance is necessary.

Bind Alipay/WeChat Pay
Activation Method: Use your passport for real-name authentication and bind it to an international credit card (Visa/MasterCard) or overseas prepaid card.
Security Settings: Enable "fingerprint/facial recognition payment" and "account safety insurance."
Avoid Transferring Money Offline to Strangers
When shopping, choose reputable platforms (such as JD.com, Taobao), and use platform-guaranteed transactions.
Refuse cash transaction requests for "discounted ticket purchases" or "special channel services" within scenic areas.

Be Cautious When Filling Out Private Information
Only provide your passport number and phone number when necessary, and confirm the identity of the recipient (such as hotels, legitimate travel agencies).
Avoid publicly posting itineraries, hotel locations, and other sensitive information on social media.
Use Privacy Protection Tools
Install security software on your phone (such as Tencent Mobile Manager, 360 Security) and regularly scan for malicious programs.
Use dedicated email accounts for registration, avoiding sharing passwords with important accounts (such as banks).

Electronic Maps and Navigation
Download Amap or Baidu Maps, which support English interfaces and real-time bus queries.
Emergency Contact Information
Police hotline: 110 (Mandarin/Partial English service available in some cities)
Bank card loss reporting: Directly call the bank’s customer service (e.g., Bank of China +86-95566).
Save Embassy Information
Record the contact details of your country's embassy in China in advance for emergency assistance.

After Being Scammed:
Immediately disconnect from the network and freeze your bank card.
Preserve evidence (screenshots, call records), and report to the local police station.
Contact your country’s embassy in China for assistance.

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