Core Viewpoint - WeChat is committed to creating a safe and green online environment, actively combating illegal activities such as pyramid schemes and fraud, which have been reported by users in group chats [1][7]. Group 1: Illegal Activities - Users have reported that certain WeChat accounts are involved in organizing pyramid schemes and fraud, often using high returns as bait to lure users into groups [1]. - These illegal activities often disguise themselves under the pretense of national policies, blockchain virtual currencies, and other enticing offers, leading to significant financial harm to users [1][7]. Group 2: Fraudulent Apps - Fraudsters are using counterfeit official icons and names to visually deceive users, lowering their guard and prompting them to download fraudulent apps [3]. - A list of suspected fraudulent apps has been provided, indicating various names and their counterfeit icons, warning users against their use [5]. Group 3: Common Tactics - The essence of pyramid schemes is to recruit new members rather than sell legitimate products or services, often leading to financial losses when the funding chain collapses [7]. - Fraudulent organizations frequently use false government documents and claims of national projects to attract participants, promising high returns without any real investment [7]. Group 4: User Warnings - Users are advised to be cautious of any promises of low investment with high returns, especially those claiming to be state secrets or having official backing [11]. - Participation in "referral" activities that require upfront payments for membership or agent qualifications should be approached with caution [12]. - Users are urged to only download apps from official stores and to avoid clicking on unknown links or downloading unfamiliar apps [13]. Group 5: Reporting Mechanisms - Users encountering suspected illegal activities are encouraged to report them through the WeChat client or Tencent's security services to protect their rights [14].

Core Viewpoint - The WeChat Security Center has issued a warning against illegal activities such as pyramid schemes and fraud organized through WeChat groups, emphasizing the potential for permanent account restrictions for participants involved in such activities [1][4]. Summary by Sections Recent Complaints and Actions - WeChat has received complaints regarding accounts involved in organizing pyramid schemes and fraud within groups, using deceptive tactics like claiming to unfreeze national assets or promoting blockchain-related investments with high returns [1][4]. Consequences for Violators - Accounts found to be violating regulations will face tiered penalties based on the severity of the violations, including potential permanent login restrictions and disabling group functionalities for confirmed violators [4]. Common Fraud Techniques - Fraudsters often disguise themselves as official entities, using fake documents and claims of government support to lure users into investing in fictitious projects, such as "historical national assets" or "blockchain virtual currencies" [10][13]. Warning Signs and Precautions - Users are advised to be cautious of promises of high returns with low investment, especially those claiming to be secret government projects. Participation in "referral" activities or downloading unknown apps is also discouraged [13][14][15]. Target Demographics - Scammers frequently exploit the trust of elderly individuals in official institutions, urging them to join pyramid schemes and recruit others, which is illegal [17].

Core Viewpoint - The WeChat Security Center has issued a warning against illegal activities such as pyramid schemes and fraud organized through WeChat groups, emphasizing the potential for permanent account restrictions for participants involved in such activities [1][2]. Group 1: Illegal Activities - Users have reported instances of accounts in WeChat groups engaging in pyramid schemes and fraud, often disguised under the pretense of national asset recovery, state policies, and blockchain-related investments [1][2]. - These fraudulent activities lure users with promises of high returns and encourage them to recruit others into the scheme, leading to financial losses and potential data breaches [11][17]. Group 2: Fraudulent Applications - The article lists several fraudulent applications that mimic official icons and names, warning users against downloading them as they are associated with scams [5][7]. - Users are advised to avoid downloading applications from unofficial links or QR codes to prevent falling victim to scams [5][16]. Group 3: Common Tactics - The core of pyramid schemes involves recruiting new members rather than selling legitimate products or services, resembling a Ponzi scheme [10]. - Fraudsters often exploit national and ethnic sentiments, fabricating government documents and policies to create fictitious investment projects, which ultimately leads to financial loss for participants [11][14]. Group 4: Precautionary Measures - Users are urged to be skeptical of any promises of low investment with high returns, especially those claiming to be state secrets or having official backing [14]. - It is recommended to avoid participating in recruitment activities that require upfront payments for membership or agent status, as these are often red flags for scams [15]. - The WeChat Security Center emphasizes the importance of downloading applications only from official app stores and being cautious with unfamiliar links and apps [16].