Shizatong · Illustrated scam prevention
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Illustrated library 01–50

50 topics. Understand the scam chain.

Explore 20 core diagrams and 30 scenario illustrations. Browse by topic, then expand the steps, warning signs and safe actions.

Images are teaching illustrations. Captions are provided in six languages. The 30 scenario illustrations contain no embedded text; existing core artwork is retained.

Find illustrations by situation

Scam industry roles

Transactions and gifts

Identity and trust

Notifications and phishing

Jobs and investments

Privacy and support

Scams operate as a chain of specialised roles. Different people work together, from first contact to collecting money.
Core diagram 1

Scams operate as a chain of specialised roles

Different people work together, from first contact to collecting money.

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Expand the four stages and response
  1. Outreach and data: Ads, social media and personal data create contact opportunities.
  2. Scripts and platforms: False identities and fabricated screens create credibility.
  3. Cash collection: Money is collected through transfers, withdrawals or in-person handovers.
  4. Moving funds: Funds change hands, making tracing and interception harder.

Key warning: Several callers do not mean several independent agencies have confirmed the story.

Break the chain: Verify again whenever the person, platform or payment method changes.

Official sources and scopeCriminal Investigation Bureau · fake online shopping and prevention

Source checked: 2026-10-02. The image is an educational illustration, not official certification. Roles and sequence vary by case. Website text is an editorial summary; citing a source does not imply official endorsement of every visual detail.

How fragments of your data support an impersonation. Knowing your name and transactions does not make someone genuine customer support.
Core diagram 2

How fragments of your data support an impersonation

Knowing your name and transactions does not make someone genuine customer support.

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Expand the four stages and response
  1. Obtaining data: Leaks or deceptive forms expose personal information.
  2. Combining records: Names, bank details and purchase information are linked.
  3. Targeted impersonation: Real details are quoted to gain trust.
  4. Requesting action: Someone posing as support asks for verification codes or a transfer.

Key warning: A caller who knows your details may still be an impostor.

Break the chain: Hang up and contact the original retailer or bank yourself.

Official sources and scopeCriminal Investigation Bureau · fake online shopping and prevention

Source checked: 2026-10-02. The image is an educational illustration, not official certification. Roles and sequence vary by case. Website text is an editorial summary; citing a source does not imply official endorsement of every visual detail.

Survey calls: protect your private routines. An ordinary conversation can turn into questions about sensitive information.
Core diagram 3

Survey calls: protect your private routines

An ordinary conversation can turn into questions about sensitive information.

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Expand the four stages and response
  1. Survey introduction: Policy, brand or questionnaire topics lower suspicion.
  2. Household questions: Questions reveal who lives with you and family schedules.
  3. Financial questions: The caller asks about banks, pensions or savings.
  4. Rewards for data: Gift vouchers encourage disclosure of precise personal details.

Key warning: Surveys and gifts are not proof of crime. Unnecessary sensitive questions deserve caution.

Break the chain: Decline questions about family routines and finances. Verify the survey organisation independently.

Official sources and scopeCriminal Investigation Bureau · fake online shopping and prevention

Source checked: 2026-10-02. The image is an educational illustration, not official certification. Roles and sequence vary by case. Website text is an editorial summary; citing a source does not imply official endorsement of every visual detail.

Urgency, secrecy and authority: three forms of pressure. Fear is created first, then outside verification is blocked.
Core diagram 4

Urgency, secrecy and authority: three forms of pressure

Fear is created first, then outside verification is blocked.

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Expand the four stages and response
  1. Claiming authority: The caller claims to be an agency, expert or supervisor.
  2. Threatening trouble: They mention an investigation, frozen funds or a family emergency.
  3. Blocking verification: They tell you not to inform family or your bank.
  4. Demanding payment: They demand money or information within a short deadline.

Key warning: The harder someone makes verification, the more important it is to stop.

Break the chain: Leave the conversation and ask someone you trust or 165 for help.

Official sources and scopeCriminal Investigation Bureau · fake online shopping and prevention

Source checked: 2026-10-02. The image is an educational illustration, not official certification. Roles and sequence vary by case. Website text is an editorial summary; citing a source does not imply official endorsement of every visual detail.