According to Kyunghyang Shinmun, a random-chat app with a million users was referred to prosecutors for mobilizing paid chatters and luring users into paid transactions with prostitution as bait — revealing organized deception of consumers.

Such apps deceive users by luring paid messages and item purchases even though real meetings never happen — fraud and consumer deception under the guise of prostitution.

Victims bear not only financial loss but the psychological burden that discourages reporting; a structure that uses illegality and shame to block reporting is a noted problem.

Authorities are cooperating with app stores to filter out illegal apps and strengthening consumer protection on payments and refunds. Users should also beware of aggressive payment prompts and 'guaranteed meeting' claims.

The safety of online services is an issue regardless of nationality. If Chinese and migrant users learn scam methods and reporting routes through multilingual guidance, harm can be reduced.