Question from a reader:
Is this a scam? I would appreciate it if you could let me know urgently. Thank you.
Definition of Fraud and How to Identify It
Fraud is an act of deceiving others, typically carried out for the purpose of obtaining financial gain. Legally, fraud refers to misleading someone through improper means and causing them to act based on
that misunderstanding. The specific forms of fraud are diverse, and particular caution is required online. Especially when the choice of domain name or the content of the services offered is not trustworthy, the likelihood of fraud increases.
The Importance of Domain Names
Many online scams are related to the choice of domain names. Scam groups often use distinctive domain names to mimic legitimate sites. Non-mainstream domains like “.vip” or “.xyz” are particularly susceptible to being used for fraud. In contrast, reputable companies typically use traditional domains such as “.com” or “.co.jp.” The domain “ce.vip” that you mentioned is significantly different from Costco’s official domain. Costco’s official domains are “costco.com” and “costco.co.jp,” and anything different from these can be judged as having low reliability at least in form.
Verification of Service Content
Another crucial element of fraud is the services or products offered. Major companies like Costco typically do not provide apps that allow users to earn rewards by completing tasks. The very business model is inherently unreliable, increasing the likelihood of fraud. For example, large companies like Costco are expected to provide reliable services to their customers. Therefore, using deceptive means to trick customers would severely undermine the company’s credibility. If such apps or services exist, it is essential to verify them based on official information.
Real Examples of Fraud and Their Impact
A recent example of actual fraud is phishing scams. Phishing scams disguise themselves as emails or SMS from reputable companies to steal personal information. For instance, there are cases where messages that appear to be from a bank lead users to a website where they are prompted to enter personal information. Here are some specific examples: 1. Fake shopping sites: There are sites that offer specific brand products at very low prices, but in reality, the products are rarely sent. 2. Money-making apps: Many scams involve claims that downloading a specific app and completing tasks will earn you money, but in most cases, the downloaded app is malicious, or no rewards are paid even after completing the tasks. These scams not only cause financial losses for individuals but can also lead to psychological stress and anxiety.
Legal Perspective Analysis
Laws regarding fraud vary by country, but generally, fraudulent acts are subject to criminal penalties. In Japan, the crime of fraud is defined under Article 246 of the Penal Code, which states that deceiving others to obtain property or financial benefits is a crime. If you fall victim to fraud, it is important to consider the following steps: 1. Collect evidence: Gather as much evidence related to the fraud as possible. This includes relevant emails, messages, contracts, and transaction records. 2. Consult the police: If you have been a victim of fraud, it is crucial to consult the police immediately. Filing a report can lead to measures against future fraudulent activities. 3. Consult a consumer center: Consulting a consumer center can also be effective. Specialized advisors can provide guidance and information on necessary procedures.
Preventive Measures and Practical Advice
To prevent fraud, it is important to take several preventive measures. Here are some practical pieces of advice: 1. Do not click on suspicious links: Links included in emails or social media messages require particular caution. Before clicking on a suspicious link, it is important to verify whether it is legitimate. 2. Check official websites: When verifying information about companies or services, using official websites is the most reliable method. 3. Do not casually provide personal information: Especially to unknown parties, refrain from providing personal information. Reputable companies will request information through official procedures. 4. Use security software: When using the internet, it is essential to use the latest security software to keep your computer or smartphone safe.
Conclusion
The risk of fraud is always present, especially online where the likelihood increases. It is necessary to carefully assess the domain “ce.vip” that you are questioning and the services offered. If you determine that there is a high possibility of fraud, it is important to consider legal measures while also implementing preventive strategies. By deepening your knowledge about fraud, you can protect yourself.
