In a recent episode of Panda Debunks Myths (September 3, 2024), the popular Chinese news program covered several myths and rumors that have been circulating in the country. The segment, which was aired on the Cover News channel, delved into various topics, including travel-related misinformation, health myths, and financial scams. Here are the highlights of the program.
Myth: High Altitude Sickness Claims at Yellow Dragon Scenic Area
One of the myths addressed in the program was the claim that 20 people die annually due to high altitude sickness at the Yellow Dragon Scenic Area in the Aba Prefecture. However, the program clarified that the information was not substantiated. The Aba Prefecture Culture, Radio, Television, and Sports and Tourism Bureau issued a statement on September 1, 2024, confirming that the claim was false. The bureau also mentioned that a tour guide, named Wang, was found guilty of false advertising and诱导 tourists to purchase unnecessary products. Wang’s actions were in violation of the Regulations on Tour Guides and he was subject to a six-month suspension from guiding tours.
Myth: Crying Excretes Toxins from the Body
Another myth that the program tackled was the belief that crying helps to expel toxins from the body. However, according to scientific experts, this is not true. Tears are a complex mixture of proteins, lipids, metabolites, and electrolytes, and they do not contain any toxins. Their primary function is to moisten the eyes, maintain eye surface health, and provide nutrients and oxygen to the cornea.
Financial Scams: Be Wary of High-Interest Loan Traps
The program also highlighted the rise of high-interest loan scams that disguise themselves as item rental and recycling services. These scams often target individuals through online platforms, offering loans in exchange for the rental or recycling of items such as smartphones, gift cards, and gold redemption coupons. The program outlined three new characteristics of these scams:
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The use of various intermediary items as a distraction: Some scammers use non-circulating virtual items like membership cards or cash cards to partially offset the loan principal or develop illegal financing leasing Apps under the guise of mobile and computer electronics financing leasing and valuable real goods trading.
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The use of various cutting interest names: Some scammers lure borrowers into downloading Apps with slogans like apply and get approval immediately, no guarantee required, and no credit check. They then charge hidden fees for guarantee, service, and handling fees, resulting in actual loan amounts much lower than the displayed loan amounts on the App.
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The expansion of channels for attracting customers: Scammers use the secrecy and speed of internet platforms to attract more customers and expand their reach. Some scammers even obtain borrowers’ contact information through illegal Apps that are not listed in the app store or have no record, and they may harass borrowers and their families through text messages and phone calls if the borrowers fail to repay the agreed amount, using soft violence to force borrowers to pay high-interest rates.
The program advised the public to be vigilant and seek loans through legitimate channels, such as banks and licensed financial institutions, to avoid falling victim to these scams and suffering financial and information losses.
Conclusion
Panda Debunks Myths has once again proven its value as a platform for dispelling misinformation and raising awareness about various issues affecting the public. The program’s timely and informative content serves as a valuable resource for viewers seeking the truth behind the rumors and scams that circulate in today’s society.
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