New scam exploits child care subsidies

A new scam is exploiting a recently announced national program offering cash subsidies for children under age 3, China Central Television reported.

The program, unveiled on July 28, provides annual cash payments of 3,600 yuan ($501) for each legitimate child under 3, retroactive to Jan 1. According to a work plan, provinces and regions will begin opening applications for the subsidies in late August, with full access to applications available nationwide by Aug 31.

However, fraudsters have been impersonating officials from the National Health Commission and the Ministry of Finance, sending fake notifications with phishing links via text message and social media to deceive individuals, CCTV reported.