Question from a reader:
Is this a scam? I would appreciate it if you could let me know urgently. Thank you.
Definition and Identification of Scams
A scam refers to the act of deceiving others to illegally obtain money or property. The methods of scams are diverse, and particularly on the internet, sophisticated techniques are often employed. Characteristics of scams include impersonating
reliable organizations or companies and pressuring individuals to make quick decisions.
The Importance of Domain Names
One aspect of scam tactics involves the selection of domain names. In particular, using a domain that differs from the official company domain (for example, for Costco, “costco.com” or “costco.co.jp”) is considered a sign of a scam. The domain name “ce.vip” mentioned in this question is generally regarded as one of the domains that are more likely to be used for scams or fraudulent activities. This is because the .vip domain does not have a particularly high level of trust, making it a preferred choice for scam groups.
Insights on the Costco App
In the official app provided by Costco, there is no mechanism to earn money by completing tasks. Costco primarily operates as a membership-based warehouse retailer and does not ask customers to perform specific tasks. Based on this information, it is essential to be cautious of apps or services that claim you can “earn money.”
Examples of Scam Tactics
In recent years, the increase in online service usage due to the COVID-19 pandemic has also led to a rise in scams. For instance, fake online shops and apps have deceived many people by claiming “easy money.” In these scams, it is common for users to be asked to pay fees for completing tasks or to make an initial investment.
Legal Analysis
Laws regarding scams vary by country, but in Japan, the crime of fraud is defined by Article 246 of the Penal Code. This article stipulates that anyone who deceives another person to obtain property can be punished with imprisonment for up to 10 years or a fine of up to 500,000 yen.
Consumer Protection Law and Its Application
In Japan, the Consumer Protection Law is also an important law against fraud. This law aims to protect consumers from unfair contracts and imposes strict regulations against false representations and misleading information by businesses. If you fall victim to a scam, it is crucial to consult with a consumer center.
How to Respond if You Become a Victim of Fraud
If you fall victim to a scam, it is important to calmly analyze the situation first. Specific steps to take are as follows: 1. Gather evidence: Save evidence such as emails, messages, and transaction history. 2. Consult the police: Report the scam to your local police station and request an investigation. 3. Consult a consumer center: Contact a consultation desk for advice. 4. Consult an expert: Speak with professionals such as lawyers to consider legal action.
Preventive Measures Against Scams
To prevent falling victim to scams, it is important to take several preventive measures.
Verify Information
It is essential to verify information from official websites and reliable sources. Especially when engaging in transactions or services involving money, always visit the official site and check that the domain name is correct.
Be Cautious of Suspicious Offers
Offers that claim “easy money” require particular caution. Typically, legitimate business models do not allow for such easy profits. Especially if an initial investment is requested, it is vital to be wary.
Manage Personal Information
Manage your personal information and only provide it when necessary. It is especially important not to easily share personal information with unknown individuals or companies.
Conclusion
To avoid becoming a victim of scams, it is necessary to verify information appropriately and be cautious of suspicious offers. Additionally, from a legal perspective, understanding your rights and responding calmly in the event of victimization is crucial. Scams are becoming more sophisticated, and continuously gathering the latest information can help in prevention. If you have any concerns, it is advisable to consult with experts or consumer centers.
