Anti-Scam Old Chen's Income Plunges to $445,000 Amid Controversy and Career Shift

Old Chen, whose real name is Chen Guoping, had previously served as a police officer in the Qinhuangdao City Public Security Bureau's Haigang Branch. He began combating telecommunications and internet scams in 2017 but initially faced challenges in disseminating awareness effectively. It wasn't until 2021, when he engaged in a live streaming debate with a host, that he gained widespread recognition. Subsequently, he amassed millions of followers, becoming the most prominent anti-scam advocate. His catchphrase, "你下载国家反诈中心APP了吗?" (Have you downloaded the National Anti-Scam Center APP?), became a viral sensation.

However, his rise to fame was also marred by controversy. In March 2022, he was criticized for collaborating with a host who was suspected of being involved in telecommunications scams. Later, he faced further scrutiny for receiving over 1 million yuan in donations during a live stream, prompting questions about the ethics of a public official receiving such payments. In response to the mounting criticism, Chen Guoping announced his resignation on April 8, 2022. He later reflected that his decision to resign was impulsive and that he hadn't fully considered his actions at the time.

After leaving his post, Chen Guoping continued to engage in various activities, including acting in short films, publishing books, and participating in the livestock industry. He also maintained an active online presence, creating content and live streaming on his personal account. Notably, Old Chen had published a book on anti-scam techniques titled "你真的安全吗" (Are You Really Safe?), with 310,000 yuan of his 2023 income derived from book royalties. His live streaming income, however, was negligible.

The case of Anti-Scam Old Chen highlights the instability of the influencer economy, where fame and fortune can be short-lived. His struggles to maintain a steady income stream are a common challenge faced by many online celebrities, raising important questions about the importance of long-term planning and strategic decision-making, even during periods of peak success. The influencer economy is notorious for its unpredictability, and the story of Anti-Scam Old Chen serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of prioritizing financial security and diversification.

The anti-fraud endeavor is a sacred and solemn public welfare undertaking that requires pure dedication and sacrifice. Chen's exploitation of the anti-fraud cause for personal gain has raised questions about his true intentions and the authenticity of his commitment to the anti-fraud movement. The anti-fraud campaign is a noble cause that demands unwavering dedication and selflessness, and it is not a means to accumulate wealth or fame. Chen's actions have not only tarnished his own reputation but also undermined the trust and credibility of the anti-fraud movement as a whole.

In early 2024, Chen Guoping expressed his desire to return to work as a police officer or auxiliary officer, stating that he wanted to utilize his skills to make a more significant impact in the fight against scams. He emphasized that his decision to seek employment was not due to financial difficulties but rather a desire to collaborate with the public security department and leverage his abilities to achieve more. This recent revelation about his income has sparked a renewed discussion about Chen Guoping's motivations and the implications of his actions. As the situation continues to unfold, the public remains divided, with some questioning his integrity and others praising his dedication to the anti-scam cause.

The future development of 反诈老陈 is uncertain and subject to how he adapts to the current situation and how the public perceives his efforts. His ability to find new directions and demonstrate value could determine whether his income and influence continue to decline or stabilize. Continuous observation and analysis of his strategies and public reception are necessary to understand his trajectory. The decline in his income and the shift in sources of income, from live streaming to book royalties, indicate a need for him to reassess his approach and find new avenues for support. Ultimately, the public's perception of 反诈老陈 and his activities will play a significant role in determining his future prospects.