Believing in promises of profits up to 777%, a woman in Hanoi deposited as much as 4 billion VND into a fake stock trading app named AJB DIRECT. The app featured a professional-looking interface, displaying VN-Index and HNX-Index figures just like a real platform.

The scam scenario involved luring users into "Stock Investment Learning" groups on Zalo, Telegram, and similar platforms. The scammers impersonated investment experts, persuading members to invest with the promise of extraordinarily high returns. On the fake app, victims' accounts appeared to generate steady profits. However, when they attempted to withdraw their money, all functions were disabled. Victims were blocked from contact and removed from the Zalo chat groups.

According to experts, all transactions on such fake apps are pre-programmed, not linked to any real stock market, though stock prices are simulated to look authentic. This scheme is spreading widely and is increasingly combined with deepfake techniques—impersonating business leaders or celebrities to boost credibility.

Signs of Stock Investment Scams and Expert Advice

Promises of massive profits—hundreds of percent returns?
No legitimate securities company guarantees such high returns.

Zalo/Telegram groups with so-called “investment experts”?
All communication and guidance from licensed firms are conducted via verified call centers only.

Asked to download an app or transfer money to a personal account?
Never download apps outside the official systems of securities companies licensed by the State Securities Commission. Do not conduct transactions outside the official platforms.

Be proactive in verifying information. Do not passively follow instructions.

Bkav