Social Media Spiritual Scams: From Multi-Million-Dollar Lottery Predictions to Fake Exorcisms

Livestream Ring Claims ‘Divine Guidance’ to Sell Lottery Tips, Stealing Over 50 Billion VND

The Dak Lak Provincial Police dismantled a massive online fraud ring run by T.M.H. (32) and D.K.S. (33). Both suspects reside in Gia Dinh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City.

The pair ran Facebook and TikTok accounts like “S… D….g Shop” and “H… L…c Shop.” They shared horoscope content to build a massive follower base. During live broadcasts, they claimed that “higher spirits” revealed daily state lottery numbers to them. They demanded upfront payments for these “lucky numbers” and “blessing packages.” To build credibility, the suspects staged elaborate rituals at sacred temples, insisting spirits handed them winning combinations.

From June 2025 to early August 2026, the group mailed hundreds of thousands of tip-filled packages to buyers nationwide. In total, they pocketed over 50 billion VND (around $2 million USD).

TikToker ‘Master Dung Van’ Arrested Over Costly ‘Curse Removals’ and Exorcisms

In a separate case, Ho Chi Minh City Police arrested Nguyen Van Dung (33, residing in Long Binh Ward) for fraud.

Dung ran the TikTok channel “Master Dung Van” with over 120,000 followers. He claimed to possess psychic powers that could dispel karmic debts and banish malevolent spirits. Dung charged victims 5 to 30 million VND ($200 to $1,200 USD) per ritual. However, he vanished without fulfilling his promises once victims transferred the money. One victim alone lost over 33 million VND to Dung.

Scammers’ Playbook and Police Warnings

Police warn that these fraudsters rely on a predictable psychological trap. First, they assume impressive titles like “master,” “healer,” or “spiritual guide.” Next, they exploit human greed with promises of easy lottery wins, or play on fears of illness and bad luck. Finally, they demand upfront money transfers for fake blessings and remote rituals.

Authorities emphasize a zero-tolerance approach toward spiritual fraud. Law enforcement will also penalize anyone who promotes such deceptive content. Police urge citizens to stay alert, avoid paying online fortune tellers, and immediately report suspicious accounts to local officers.