Shizatong · Illustrated scam prevention
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

‘Guess who?’: do not supply an impostor’s identity. They let you guess a name, then use that relationship to ask for money.
Core diagram 9

‘Guess who?’: do not supply an impostor’s identity

They let you guess a name, then use that relationship to ask for money.

Expand the four stages and response
  1. A new number: They claim a changed phone or lost contact list.
  2. Getting you to guess: They adopt the relative or friend’s name you suggest.
  3. An urgent loan: Medical bills, debt or cash-flow problems justify a transfer.
  4. Avoiding confirmation: They avoid callbacks through known channels and other checks.

Key warning: You may have supplied the familiar name yourself.

Break the chain: Call the previously saved number to confirm the person and the request.

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.

A familiar voice still needs a second channel. Voice, photos and video are not complete proof of identity.
Core diagram 10

A familiar voice still needs a second channel

Voice, photos and video are not complete proof of identity.

Expand the four stages and response
  1. Obtaining material: Public or leaked recordings and images can be misused.
  2. Imitating a person: A familiar-looking image or voice is fabricated.
  3. Emergency pressure: An accident, kidnapping or urgent payment is claimed.
  4. Blocking checks: They demand secrecy or tell you not to hang up.

Key warning: A family code word should be combined with known contact channels. It cannot guarantee safety alone.

Break the chain: Use the old number to reach the person or another family member. Call 110 for immediate danger.

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.

Fake investments use small gains to encourage larger deposits. A successful withdrawal does not prove a platform is trustworthy.
Core diagram 11

Fake investments use small gains to encourage larger deposits

A successful withdrawal does not prove a platform is trustworthy.

Expand the four stages and response
  1. Investment ads: Celebrities or high returns attract people into groups.
  2. Group endorsement: A ‘teacher’, assistants and profit screenshots create confidence.
  3. Small payouts: A small payout builds trust.
  4. Large withdrawals blocked: After larger deposits, withdrawals fail and more fees are demanded.

Key warning: Guaranteed profits, personal payment accounts and unfamiliar apps are warning signs.

Break the chain: Stop adding money. Save group messages and transaction evidence.

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.

Dating to livestreaming: money does not prove affection. As the relationship grows, more payment conditions appear.
Core diagram 12

Dating to livestreaming: money does not prove affection

As the relationship grows, more payment conditions appear.

Expand the four stages and response
  1. Intense attention: Romantic interest and trust are built quickly.
  2. Moving platforms: Livestreaming work is used to invite you to another platform.
  3. Performance pressure: Punishment stories, competitions or VIP access pressure you to top up.
  4. Delayed promises: Meetings do not happen and new payment conditions appear.

Key warning: Livestreaming and tipping can be legitimate. False promises and repeated payment conditions deserve caution.

Break the chain: Save evidence, stop paying, then block the person and report them to the platform.

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.