False challenge on Xiaomi: how to recognize and what to do

Xiaomi smartphones today have many security features, but even they are not immune to fraudulent schemes. False calls are one of the most common threats users face. Attackers use them to steal data, money, or even remotely control a device. In this article, we will discuss how to recognize a fake call, why it might arrive on your Redmi or POCO, and what to do to minimize the risks.

Many people mistakenly think that false calls are a problem for bank fraudsters, in fact, attacks can be aimed at gaining access to a Mi Account, installing malware, or even locking a ransom device, especially vulnerable users who do not update firmware or ignore security warnings, and then a detailed guide with practical tips and instructions.

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What is a False Challenge and How Does It Work for Xiaomi?

A false call is a call or notification that mimics an official source (bank, Xiaomi support, telecom operator), but actually comes from scammers, and the purpose is to get the user to do certain things: click on a link, enter a confirmation code, install an application, or provide remote access to the device.

On Xiaomi smartphones, such attacks are often disguised as:

• 📞 Calls from Xiaomi Support to confirm your account or update your software.
• 🔄 Notifications of a “critical error” in the system that require immediate action.
• 💳 SMS or push notifications about blocking the Mi Account with a proposal to unlock it by phone.
• 📦 Notifications of “parcel arrival” with a request to pay customs fees.

Fraudsters actively exploit phishing schemes when a user is redirected to a fake site, which is seemingly indistinguishable from the official one. For example, instead of account.xiaomi.com, xiaomi-account-security.ru can be used.

Another common method is hacking through MIUI. Attackers can send malicious messages APK-Files disguised as "security updates" or exploit vulnerabilities in older firmware versions, such as a flaw in 2022. MIUI 12.5, allowing remote code execution through fake push notifications.

Signs of a false call: how to distinguish a scammer from a real call

The rule of thumb is that Xiaomi’s official services never call users first. All notifications come via the Mi Security app, SMS from short numbers (like 10086 for China), or email from the domain @xiaomi.com. If you get a call from an unfamiliar number and pretend to be supportive, it’s 100% fraud.

The main signs of a false call:

• 🔢 Unusual number: official Xiaomi numbers start with +86 (China) or local country codes (e.g, +7,495 for Russia. Fraudsters often use virtual numbers with non-standard prefixes.
• 🗣️ Pressure and urgency: "Your account is blocked! Immediately confirm the data!" is a classic tactic.
• 🔗 Please click on the link: even if the caller calls himself a Xiaomi employee, a request to open a site or install an application is a sure sign of deception.
• 📱 Remote Access Requirement: via TeamViewer, AnyDesk or built-in features MIUI (Mi Remote, for example, is a direct route to data theft.

Critical: Fraudsters may know your name, phone model, and even the last digits of your phone number, and it’s easy to find it in open sources (social media, database leaks), so don’t trust a call just because the person “knows everything about you.”

Check the caller's number through a search engine. For example, if you ask for +79991234567, scammers often find reviews from other users. You can also use services like GetContact or Truecaller, but remember that they also do not give a 100% guarantee.

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MIUI 14+ has a built-in number check feature. Go to Settings → Applications → Calls → Check numbers and enable the option. The system will automatically flag suspicious contacts.

Step-by-step: what to do if a scammer calls

If you have already picked up the phone or missed a suspicious call, follow the algorithm:

1. Don't panic or follow instructions, interrupt the conversation by saying you'll call back through official channels.
2. Check the number through a search engine or specialized services (for example, who-called.me).
3. Don't click on links or enter confirmation codes, even if the caller threatens to block the account.
4. Block the number in the phone application: click on the contact → Block.
5. Check your device for viruses using Mi Security or Google Play Protect.

If the fraudster has time to install malware, follow the following steps:

Remove unfamiliar apps in Settings → Apps

Disconnect the device from the Internet (aircraft mode)

Reset passwords from Mi Account, email and banking apps

Update the firmware to the latest version in Settings → About the phone → System update

Back up important data and reset to factory settings-->

Important: If a scammer has accessed your Mi Account, contact Xiaomi support immediately via the official website. use the feedback form or chat in the Mi Community app. Don't trust the numbers from the search engine - they can also be fake!

⚠️ Note: If you have already entered a confirmation code or provided access to the screen, fraudsters may have activated Find Device in your account, which will allow them to remotely lock your phone or erase data. → Xiaomi account → Device management.

How to protect Xiaomi from false calls: prevention

The best protection is prevention, and follow these guidelines to minimize the risks:

• 🔒 Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) This will make it harder for fraudsters to access even if they recognize your password. → Xiaomi account → Security.
• 📱 Update the firmware to the latest version. MIUI - close vulnerabilities that can be used for phishing. → The phone. → Updating the system.
• 🚫 Disable the installation from unknown sources. APK. Path: Settings → Annexes → Special permits → Installation of unknown applications.
• 🛡️ Use built-in security tools: Mi Security, Google Play Protect and antiviruses like Kaspersky or Bitdefender.
• 📵 Set up spam filtering in the Phone application: Settings → Spam and blocking → Spam filter.

You can also install spam blocking apps like Truecaller or Hiya, which automatically detect fraudulent numbers and alert you to potential dangers, but remember that these apps require access to your contacts and call logs — weigh the risks before installing them.

If you get spam calls often, consider using a second number to sign up for services. Virtual numbers (like Telegram or Google Voice) will help separate personal contacts from potentially dangerous ones.

What to do if the fraudster has already gained access to the device

If you suspect that your Xiaomi is compromised, act quickly and clearly:

1. Turn off the Internet (plane mode or Wi-Fi/mobile data) and stop the data being transmitted to the attackers.
2. Remove suspicious apps. Check the installed list in Settings → Apps. Pay attention to apps with unfamiliar names or no icons.
3. Change passwords from Mi Account, email, banking apps and social networks. Use reliable combinations (at least 12 characters with numbers and special signs).
4. Check active sessions in Settings → Xiaomi Account → Device Management. Delete all unknown devices.
5. Perform a factory reset. This is a last resort, but it is guaranteed to remove all malware. Pre-backup important data (photos, contacts) to an external drive.

After reset, do not restore data from the backup if it was created after infection. Viruses can be stored in backups, it is better to manually transfer the desired files (photos, documents) and install the applications again from Google Play.

If the fraudsters managed to link your number to their services (for example, to confirm payments), contact the operator with a request to block the service. SIM-This will prevent unauthorized actions on your behalf.

⚠️ Attention: if a notification about a “virus infection” appears on the screen with an offer to call the specified number, this is phishing. MIUI Never displays such alerts. Reboot the device immediately in Safe Mode (press the power button). → long tap on "Switch off" → "Safe Mode") and remove suspicious applications.

Table: Comparison of real and false Xiaomi notifications

If you doubt the authenticity of a notice, never click on the links from it. Instead, open the official Mi Security app or go to account.xiaomi.com manually through your browser, where you will see all the real warnings.

Frequent schemes of fraudsters on Xiaomi: analysis of cases

Fraudsters are constantly improving their attack methods, and consider the most common schemes faced by Xiaomi users:

• 📦 "The package is delayed at customs" call you or come SMS The message that the package (often allegedly from Xiaomi or AliExpress) is delayed and you have to pay a “duty” or “fine” is actually no parcel is a way to lure money or card details.
• 🔒 "Xiaomi account blocked" Call or notification of account lock demanding to confirm details by phone. SMS, Which is actually a confirmation to change the password.
• 💻 "Xiaomi Technical Support: A call from a "specialist" who reports a "critical error" on the phone and asks you to install the "diagnostic" app, which is actually a remote access or a virus.
• 🎁 "You won prizes from Xiaomi SMS or a call about winning in the draw (smartphone, cash prize). To receive the "prize" you need to pay the "commission" or enter the card details.
• 📱 "Update firmware" push notification or call with an offer to update MIUI It's actually a phishing page that downloads malware.

In 2023, cases of fraudsters using fake notifications from Mi Pay increased. SMS It was a "failed payment" requesting confirmation of a link, which was actually a phishing page for stealing credit card details.

Another dangerous scheme is calls from the police or the FSB, accusing them of piracy or possession of banned content, demanding that they pay a “fine” or give access to a phone for “checking.” Remember: law enforcement never resolves such issues over the phone.

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If you get a call asking you to pay for, install or confirm something, it’s a scam. Real Xiaomi services don’t work over the phone and ask for money for “unlocking” or “technical support.”

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions About False Calls on Xiaomi