Recently, consumers across various regions in China have reported receiving suspicious packages labeled as "prize winnings." These packages were addressed accurately with recipients’ personal details and often contained a scratch card or flyer promoting valuable prizes. Unfortunately, some individuals fell for these scams, losing up to 45,000 yuan. It is critical not to trust such "prize packages."

Two Notable "Winning Package" Scam Cases

Case 1: Ms. Li from Chengdu

Ms. Li, a resident of Chengdu’s Wuhou District, received a message on October 28 about a Yunda Express package ready for pickup. Believing it to be an online order, she collected it only to find an envelope with a thank-you letter and scratch card inside. The card revealed a prize worth “thousands of yuan,” including a gift set, cash bonuses, and more. However, to claim these prizes, she was instructed to scan a QR code or contact customer service, providing her personal information.

Ms. Li was surprised to see her full name, address, and phone number on the package, including a real name she rarely uses for online shopping. Growing suspicious, she checked online and found other users reporting similar experiences. Some victims had scanned the code, provided personal details, and fallen for the scam.

Case 2: Ms. Liu from Jiangsu

Another case involved Ms. Liu from Jiangsu, who also received a "winning card" and scanned the QR code, joining a "gift redemption" group chat. In the group, a customer service representative instructed her to download a specific app, listen to music, and share screenshots for small cash rewards. After a few successful earnings, Ms. Liu felt reassured about the group’s legitimacy. She was later encouraged to participate in a "competitive task," with promises of higher returns for larger investments. Feeling tempted, she invested 45,000 yuan but was told there was an "error" and asked to transfer an additional 45,000 yuan. Realizing she’d been scammed, she reported the incident to the police, who have since begun an investigation. Statement from Targeted Brands Responding to consumer feedback and complaints, a well-known snack brand that was impersonated in these scams, issued a statement clarifying that they had not created, distributed, or authorized any such cards or promotions. They urged consumers not to scan any unknown QR codes or share personal details and to verify information sources carefully.

Characteristics of These Scams

Accurate Data Access: Scammers possess detailed information, including the recipient’s name, address, and phone number, lending legitimacy and making it harder for victims to doubt the package’s authenticity.

Combined Online-Offline Approach: The scam utilizes the physical trust associated with packages, combined with online processes like QR codes and customer service contacts, creating a multi-step deception.

Layered Manipulation: Victims are led through multiple steps—from joining group chats to downloading unauthorized apps—to build trust gradually, making them more susceptible to subsequent scams.

High-Quality Imitation: Scammers exploit brand names and distribute small cash prizes or physical items to reinforce credibility, convincing victims to continue participating.

Consumer Precautions

The Dingxiang Defense Cloud Business Security Intelligence Center suggests that consumers enhance their vigilance with the following measures:

Do Not Trust Unknown Packages Easily

: When receiving a package from an unknown source, maintain caution. For unfamiliar prize notifications—especially if they involve scanning a QR code or contacting unknown customer service—avoid providing personal information.

Be Skeptical of Various Rewards

: Scammers often use small cash rewards or gifts to lower the victim’s guard, then gradually increase the stakes. Remember that “nothing comes for free,” and maintain a healthy level of suspicion towards any unusually high returns.

Avoid Downloading Apps from Unverified Sources

: Be particularly wary of apps that cannot be found on mainstream platforms or official app stores. Downloading such apps may lead to personal information leakage or even financial risk.

Verify and Seek Help from Authorities in Doubtful Situations

: If you suspect a potential scam, check online or contact the local police hotline for information. When in doubt, report it to the police to prevent financial loss.

In conclusion, these “winning package” scams leverage couriers, online chat groups, and other forms of allure to create a high level of deception. Consumers should enhance their awareness, carefully verify the source of information, avoid trusting prize messages easily, and protect themselves from fraud.