Why Are There So Many Scams in Japan?

Thank you for the question. My honest answer is that in my experience, Japanese people are generally very earnest, sincere, and trusting of others—some to the point of naivety or gullibility, especially the older generation. This trust is well-known and unfortunately, criminals take advantage of it. Paradoxically, it is a testament to the sweetness and honesty of most Japanese that these scams and cons are somewhat pervasive!

Another factor may be the recent loosening of family bonds, while still retaining a strong sense of family. This, combined with the general vagueness that can be present in some Japanese communications, can create an environment where the so-called ore-ore sagi scams are easier to perpetrate on the elderly. Several friends' older relatives have fallen victim to these phone scams where the criminal impersonates a relative in distress, asking for large sums of money.

The ore-ore (meaning "my money" in Japanese) scam is a prime example of this. Criminals use social engineering to trick the elderly or unsuspecting individuals into transferring money. This scam is particularly devastating for older generations who may not immediately recognize the fraudulent nature of the call. Here are some key insights into why this problem persists:

The Psychology Behind Scams

Criminals exploit the natural kindness and trust of the Japanese people. By presenting themselves as distressed family members or friends, they create a sense of urgency and empathy, making victims more likely to comply with their requests. This psychological manipulation plays a significant role in the success of such scams.

Techniques Used in Scams

Phone scams, particularly ore-ore scams, often involve carefully constructed narratives and emotional appeals. The scammers may:

Impersonate a relative in trouble and urgently needing money. Create a story of legal trouble or an unexpected expense. Use basic information obtained from social media or data breaches to build credibility. Redirect victims to websites or call centers for additional verification and transfers.

Why These Scams Work in Japan

Japan, by most metrics, is a safe country, which means that trust in others is high. This trust, combined with the general perception of safety, can be a double-edged sword. While it fosters a harmonious society, it also makes the populace susceptible to con artists who exploit their kindness and unawareness.

Social and Cultural Factors

Another contributing factor is the changing dynamics of family and community in modern Japan. While traditional values and family honor still hold significant weight, the younger generations often have looser family bonds. This shift can create a lack of immediate family support, making the elderly more vulnerable to such scams.

Addressing the Issue

To combat these scams, education and awareness campaigns are crucial. Older generations, in particular, should be taught to be cautious of unsolicited calls and to verify information with trusted individuals. Additionally, stronger legal measures and stricter penalties for scammers can help deter such crimes.

Conclusion

The prevalence of scams in Japan is a complex issue that stems from the country's strong cultural ties and the evolving nature of family and community. While it challenges the image of a harmonious and trustworthy society, understanding these underlying factors can help in developing effective strategies to mitigate this social problem.

References

Citations and data to support the claims made in this article can be found in relevant studies on Japanese society, crime statistics, and media reports on scams.