# VNEID: When Individual Security Is at Risk In the backdrop of Vietnam's strong digitalization, many people now rely heavily on the VNEID electronic identity application. However, in addition to the convenience that this program offers, there are fraudulent operations that take advantage of users' confidence to commit unlawful acts. Scammers not only steal personal information, but they also cheat people of their assets using sophisticated and varied techniques. ### **Impersonation Methods** #### **Fake Emails and Messages** One of the most prevalent tactics employed by impersonators is to send false emails or messages to users. These alerts frequently include links that allow users to install or update unofficial VNEID programs. Users, if not cautious, might easily be duped into installing fraudulent software without realizing it. #### **Fake Applications on Unofficial Stores** Furthermore, scammers create and distribute fraudulent apps on unlicensed app shops. These programs are frequently built to look exactly like the original software in order to trick users. When consumers install these programs, they unintentionally disclose personal information to scammers. ![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1723173673164/b6f410f1-ef77-484d-8689-126c85a84d08.png align="center") Fake applications have been identified as banking malware that always targets account information and banking apps to steal victims' money. ![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1723203859681/976fb855-57ad-412d-bb08-e38966442c5f.png align="center") Once the malware is installed on the victim's device, the attacker gains permissions such as access to memory, location, contacts, applications, and, notably, the ability to read, receive, and send SMS messages on the device. ![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1723206799533/c91adf3e-05b3-4862-8e29-2f3cb913eb68.png align="center") #### **Exploiting Social Media** Scammers don't just stop at sending fake emails or distributing counterfeit apps; they also use social media platforms to create groups or clubs aimed at enticing users to download and install fake apps. This way, they can reach a large number of potential users. ### **Consequences of Using Fake Apps** #### **Loss of Personal Information** Users may lose important personal information such as ID numbers, passports, home addresses, and more when they install and use fake apps. This not only causes inconvenience but can also lead to personal information being exploited in other illegal activities. #### **Security Vulnerabilities** Fake apps may also contain malicious code, creating security vulnerabilities on users' mobile devices. These vulnerabilities can be exploited by malicious actors to attack or steal data from users' devices. #### **Financial Loss** In some cases, users are scammed and lose money by installing and using fake apps. A typical example is a woman who was scammed out of 15 billion VND after installing a fake app and following the scammer's instructions. ### **Preventive Measures** To avoid becoming a victim of these fraudulent activities, users should pay attention to the following preventive measures: #### **Check the Source of the App** Only download apps from official app stores like Google Play or the Apple App Store to ensure that the downloaded app is legitimate. ![Bị lừa kích hoạt ứng dụng VNeID, người phụ nữ mất gần 1,5 tỷ đồng ảnh 2](https://image.tienphong.vn/w645/Uploaded/2024/qjh-vcobuhviob/2024_03_12/lua-cai-dat-ung-ung-vneid-5900.png align="left") #### **Be Cautious With Strange Emails and Messages** Do not send personal information via weird emails or messages. If you receive a request for personal information via email or message, please contact the management authority directly to confirm the information. ![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1723174054394/efcadf74-8a66-4778-b27c-16495eb93bf3.png align="center") #### **Update Information from the Managing Authority** Follow the controlling authority's official statements for the most up-to-date information about the VNEID app and fraud protection measures. ### **Conclusion** The counterfeiting of the VNEID software not only poses a security risk, but it also has a direct impact on users' rights and assets. To avoid being the next victim, each user must remain cautious, comprehend basic security concepts, and consistently update information from official sources. By doing so, we can collaborate to establish a secure and convenient digital environment for all Vietnamese citizens. ### **References** 1. Cẩn trọng với ứng dụng VNeID giả mạo: [https://baophapluat.vn/can-trong-voi-ung-dung-vneid-gia-mao-post511865.html](https://baophapluat.vn/can-trong-voi-ung-dung-vneid-gia-mao-post511865.html) 2. Giả công an hướng dẫn cài app VNeID dỏm, lừa lấy tiền tỉ: [https://tuoitre.vn/gia-cong-an-huong-dan-cai-app-vneid-dom-lua-lay-tien-ti-20240318224720091.htm](https://tuoitre.vn/gia-cong-an-huong-dan-cai-app-vneid-dom-lua-lay-tien-ti-20240318224720091.htm) 3. Bị lừa kích hoạt ứng dụng VNeID, người phụ nữ mất gần 1,5 tỷ đồng: [https://tienphong.vn/bi-lua-kich-hoat](https://tienphong.vn/bi-lua-kich-hoat-ung-dung-vneid-nguoi-phu-nu-mat-gan-15-ty-dong-post1619426.tpo) [ung-dung-vneid-nguoi-phu-nu-mat-gan-15-ty-dong-post1619426.tpo](https://tienphong.vn/bi-lua-kich-hoat-ung-dung-vneid-nguoi-phu-nu-mat-gan-15-ty-dong-post1619426.tpo) 4. Lừa đảo chiếm đoạt tài sản thông qua việc cài đặt ứng dụng VneID: [https://vtv.vn/xa-hoi/lua-dao-chiem-doat-tai-san-thong-qua-viec-cai-dat-ung-dung-vneid-20240327192040208.htm](https://vtv.vn/xa-hoi/lua-dao-chiem-doat-tai-san-thong-qua-viec-cai-dat-ung-dung-vneid-20240327192040208.htm) 5. Xuất hiện ứng dụng VNeID giả mạo có giao diện giống với ứng dụng VNeID thật: [https://laodong.vn/xa-hoi/xuat-hien-ung-dung-vneid-gia-mao-co-giao-dien-giong-voi-ung-dung-vneid-that-1275446.ldo](https://laodong.vn/xa-hoi/xuat-hien-ung-dung-vneid-gia-mao-co-giao-dien-giong-voi-ung-dung-vneid-that-1275446.ldo) 6. Cảnh báo cuộc gọi giả mạo công an kích hoạt hộ VNeID mức 2: [http://www.vietnet24h.vn/tieu-dung/canh-bao-cuoc-goi-gia-mao-cong-an-kich-hoat-ho-vneid-muc-2](http://www.vietnet24h.vn/tieu-dung/canh-bao-cuoc-goi-gia-mao-cong-an-kich-hoat-ho-vneid-muc-2)