Japan reports rising special fraud damages reaching 236 billion yen

Special fraud damages in Japan reached 236.07 billion yen as of the end of August, marking an increase of 58.84 billion yen compared to the previous year. Approximately 70 percent of losses incurred through bank transfers were conducted via online banking.

In response to these rising figures, local initiatives are being launched to curb telephone-based fraud. Following a request from the Miyazaki Prefectural Police, a regional telecommunications provider has declared a commitment to promote the download of the “Fraud Countermeasures” app, which is recommended by the National Police Agency. The app is designed to deter calls from international numbers or numbers suspected of being used for criminal activities, aiming to reduce contact between potential victims and perpetrators.