Scammed in China? A Foreigner's Guide to Legal Remedies

Being scammed is devastating, and it's even more challenging when it happens in a foreign country where you don't speak the language or understand the legal system. If you've been a victim of fraud in China, here's what you need to know about your options.

Common Scams Targeting Foreigners in China

Foreigners can be targeted for various scams, including:

• Investment scams: Fake investment opportunities promising high returns
• Romance scams: Online relationships leading to requests for money
• Business scams: Fake suppliers, non-delivery of goods, or counterfeit products
• Employment scams: Fake job offers requiring upfront payments
• Rental scams: Fake landlords collecting deposits for properties they don't own
• Tea house/art gallery scams: Being pressured into paying inflated prices

Immediate Steps to Take

1. Stop All Communication and Payments

Don't send any more money, even if threatened. Scammers often try to extract additional payments with various excuses.

2. Preserve All Evidence

Save everything:

• Screenshots of all conversations (WeChat, WhatsApp, email)
• Payment records and bank transfers
• Contracts or agreements
• Photos, videos, and any documents received
• The scammer's contact information, bank accounts, company names

3. Report to Police

File a report at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB). This is important even if recovery seems unlikely, as it creates an official record and may help others.

Legal Options for Recovery

Criminal Route

If the police accept your case as criminal fraud, they will investigate. However, be aware that:

• Police may be reluctant to accept cases involving small amounts
• Cross-border scams are difficult to investigate
• Even if the scammer is caught, recovering money is not guaranteed

Civil Lawsuit

You can file a civil lawsuit to recover your losses. This requires:

• Identifying the defendant (real name and address)
• Having sufficient evidence of the fraud
• The defendant having assets to recover

Bank Reporting

If you transferred money to a Chinese bank account, report the fraud to your bank immediately. In some cases, funds can be frozen if reported quickly enough.

Realistic Expectations

I want to be honest with you: recovering money from scams is difficult. Success depends on:

• How quickly you act
• Whether the scammer can be identified
• Whether they have recoverable assets
• The amount of money involved (larger amounts get more attention)

Many scammers use fake identities and quickly move money, making recovery challenging. However, taking action is still important — it may help prevent others from being victimized and, in some cases, recovery is possible.

How a Lawyer Can Help

A Chinese lawyer can:

• Communicate with police on your behalf
• Help prepare and file reports properly
• Investigate the scammer's identity and assets
• File civil lawsuits if appropriate
• Advise on the realistic chances of recovery

Protecting Yourself in the Future

1. Verify business partners through official channels before sending money
2. Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true
3. Never send money to people you've only met online
4. Use secure payment methods with buyer protection when possible
5. Research companies and individuals before doing business

Conclusion

Being scammed is a terrible experience, but you're not without options. Act quickly, preserve evidence, and seek professional help. While recovery isn't guaranteed, taking proper steps gives you the best chance and helps protect others from the same scammers.