Financial Crime World

Money Transfer Fraud Schemes on the Rise in Japan

Fraudsters are increasingly using sophisticated scams to trick unsuspecting victims into transferring large sums of money from their bank accounts, with devastating consequences for those affected.

Common Scams

  • Phone Call Scam: Frausters call victims claiming that their cash cards are being used fraudulently and demand they create a new card. Once the victim provides the details, the fraudster withdraws funds from their account.
  • Relative in Distress Scam: Pretending to be a relative in distress, fraudsters convince victims to wire money or send cash by post.
  • Refund Scams: Fraudsters claim to be ward office employees requiring victims to complete procedures to receive an insurance refund, only to demand they withdraw funds at an ATM.
  • Billing Fraud: Victims are tricked into paying for items they never purchased.

Prevention is Key

To avoid falling victim to these scams:

  • Activate Your Answering Machine: Carefully check messages before returning calls from unfamiliar numbers.
  • Be Cautious of Requests: Be wary of requests to transfer money or hand over cash to unknown individuals. Remember that police officers and ward office employees will never ask you to entrust them with your cash card.

Family Protocols

It’s crucial to discuss fraud with family members and establish protocols for communication, including:

  • Passwords: Establish a password system to verify each other’s identity on the phone.
  • Communication Protocols: Determine how to address each other on the phone to avoid confusion.

Vigilance is Necessary

Be vigilant of any requests to complete procedures for refunds or insurance premiums via ATMs - such schemes are always fraudulent.

Support and Assistance

If you’re a victim of bank transfer fraud, contact the Community Crime-Prevention Support Division at the Community Support Department’s Civic Affairs Bureau:

The team is available to provide assistance and support in Japanese only.