CHAPTER 08 · 46 SOURCE ENTRIES

Staying Out of Trouble

别把自己搭进去:法律与财产安全

[← 回总目录](../README.md) 这一节算钱和人身自由,不换算成寿命。讲的是三件事:法律规定你要担什么责任、照着做能少赔多少钱、出了事你在程序上有哪些权利。条款号都和官方原文核对过。排序的办法是:一次出事损失最大、做起来又最省事的放最前面;需要提前安排的放中间;只有经验、没有官方文件撑着的放最后。 本节条目按主题分成下面几块,括号里是条号。 **防骗**:发现被骗立刻要求止付(第 2 条),反诈硬规则(第 3 条),视频里看见脸不算核实(第 4 条),银行卡手机卡不借人(第 8 条),免费查征信报告(第 9 条),网购二手交易被骗(第 22 条),上门维修先问价(第 27 条),不

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08-001

After a traffic accident, stop, help the injured, and call the police — don’t flee

出了交通事故先停车、救人、报警,不要跑

If you flee the scene, you are automatically considered fully responsible for the accident. Your driver’s license will be revoked, and you won’t be allowed to retake the test for life. More practically, both collision damage coverage and third‑party liability insurance will not pay any claims related to fleeing — you’d have to cover hundreds of thousands of dollars out of pocket. Staying on the scene to help and call the police only takes a couple of hours.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “After a traffic accident, stop, help the injured, and call the police — don’t flee” to Future Me's calendar

One more exception feels free because the bill arrives outside the current scene.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-002

If you realize you’ve been scammed, call 110 or 96110 right away to request a stop‑payment — don’t try to investigate on your own first.

发现被骗,立刻打 110 或 96110 要求止付,别先自己查

The brief period right after money is sent is the only window of opportunity. During this time police can issue an emergency stop‑payment order and quickly freeze the funds; banks are required to comply. Once the money has been moved through multiple accounts and scattered, it becomes almost impossible to recover. Therefore, call 110 or 96110 immediately — don’t waste time investigating or asking questions on your own. Calls to 96110 come from police officers trying to warn you, so be sure to answer them.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “If you realize you’ve been scammed, call 110 or 96110 right away to request a stop‑payment — don’t try to investigate on your own first.” to Future Me's calendar

I can spend longer deciding whether to start than the small action would take.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-003

Remember the core anti-fraud rules: don’t trust unsolicited calls, don’t share personal information, don’t click on suspicious links, and always verify any transfer requests. All seven of the most common scam types follow this same pattern.

记住反诈硬规则:来电不轻信、信息不透露、链接不点击、转账多核实,七种最常见的骗局都是这个形状

If someone asks you to transfer money, share your screen, download an unknown app, click a link, or share verification codes, hang up first and then call the official number to verify. The seven most common scam types are fake “task reward” schemes, fraudulent investment offers, fake loan scams, impersonation of customer service agents, impersonation of police or judicial officials, romance scams, and fake “task reward” schemes involving seduction. All of them aim to get you to send money first. Spotting them in advance is far cheaper than trying to recover lost funds later.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Remember the core anti-fraud rules: don’t trust unsolicited calls, don’t share personal information, don’t click on suspicious links, and always verify any transfer requests. All seven of the most common scam types follow this same pattern.” to Future Me's calendar

The routine already works until the day the source says it may not.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-004

Seeing a face on video or hearing a voice on the phone does not count as verification; if a transfer is involved, hang up first and call back using an old number saved in your contacts.

视频里看见脸、电话里听见声音都不算核实,涉及转账先挂断,用自己通讯录里的旧号码打回去

Seeing someone’s face or hearing their voice is not reliable proof of identity. Whenever money transfer is mentioned, hang up immediately and call back using an old number stored in your contacts, or ask someone you both know. If the caller claims “poor signal” or “I’m in a meeting” and refuses a live video chat, treat it as a scam.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Seeing a face on video or hearing a voice on the phone does not count as verification; if a transfer is involved, hang up first and call back using an old number saved in your contacts.” to Future Me's calendar

There is no immediate alarm, so the sensible choice can wait for a less busy week.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-005

If accused or summoned, hire a lawyer first — don’t settle privately or delete records

被指控或被传唤,先请律师,不私了、不删记录

You can hire a lawyer right from the first time you’re called in for questioning. If the lawyer requests a meeting, the detention center must arrange it within 48 hours, and those talks cannot be monitored. You’re allowed to refuse answering any questions unrelated to the case.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “If accused or summoned, hire a lawyer first — don’t settle privately or delete records” to Future Me's calendar

Future Me has a clearer calendar, more patience, and apparently the same responsibilities.

Today I keep a little money, a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-006

Coming forward voluntarily after an incident: Self‑surrender can cut a sentence by up to 40%, and the “statute of limitations” defense simply does not exist

出了事主动去说清楚:自首最多能减四成刑,犯罪较轻的还能减更多甚至免罚,「躲过追诉期」这条路是堵死的

Voluntarily surrendering can reduce a prison term by up to 40%; for less serious offenses it may even lead to no punishment at all. If you confess only after being caught, the reduction is capped at 20%. Running away or denying responsibility yields no benefit. Relying on the statute of limitations to get off scot‑free is impossible: once a case is officially opened, the time you spend evading authorities does not count toward that limit. The relevant sentencing rules have been in effect since 2021.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Coming forward voluntarily after an incident: Self‑surrender can cut a sentence by up to 40%, and the “statute of limitations” defense simply does not exist” to Future Me's calendar

If I do not open the notes, no new task has technically appeared.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-007

Don’t touch the steering wheel after drinking — even for e‑bikes or “just moving the car a bit”

喝了酒就不碰方向盘,包括电动车和「挪一下车」

Driving after drinking results in a 6‑month suspension of your license and a fine of 1000–2000 yuan. A second offense brings up to 10 days in jail and permanent license revocation. Drunk driving leads to immediate license cancellation; you can’t reapply for 5 years and may face criminal charges for dangerous driving, leaving a criminal record that affects background checks and certain jobs. Auto insurance won’t cover any claims: once you’ve been drinking, your policy becomes void. Even “just moving the car a bit” counts as driving.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Don’t touch the steering wheel after drinking — even for e‑bikes or “just moving the car a bit”” to Future Me's calendar

One more exception feels free because the bill arrives outside the current scene.

Today I keep a little money, a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-008

Never lend your bank cards, SIM cards, or payment accounts to anyone — “money laundering” is not a side hustle

不把银行卡、手机卡、支付账号借给任何人,「跑分」不是兼职

Renting, lending, or selling your bank cards, SIM cards, or payment accounts is illegal on its own. Penalties include confiscation of all illegal earnings plus a fine of 1 to 10 times that amount; if no earnings were made, the maximum fine is 200000 yuan. In serious cases, offenders face up to 15 days in detention, a negative credit record, and restrictions on account functionality. If you knowingly assist criminals by receiving or transferring money using these accounts, you could be convicted of aiding information network criminal activities, punishable by up to 3 years in prison.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Never lend your bank cards, SIM cards, or payment accounts to anyone — “money laundering” is not a side hustle” to Future Me's calendar

I can spend longer deciding whether to start than the small action would take.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-009

Checking your credit report twice a year for free helps spot any loans or cards you didn’t apply for.

每年免费查两次自己的征信报告,看有没有不是自己办的贷款和卡

Laws give you the right to check your own credit report twice a year at no charge, and you can finish the process online in ten minutes. Negative entries stay on the report for five years from the date they’re resolved; after that they must be removed. If you dispute any information, the credit agency or data provider must respond to you in writing within 20 days. To check your report, use the official website of the People’s Bank of China’s Credit Information Center or your mobile banking app — avoid third‑party “credit check” apps, as they collect your personal data.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Checking your credit report twice a year for free helps spot any loans or cards you didn’t apply for.” to Future Me's calendar

The routine already works until the day the source says it may not.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-010

If a fight breaks out, call the police first — the one who strikes first almost always loses

起了冲突先报警不动手,先动手的那个几乎一定吃亏

Anyone who assaults another person faces 5 to 10 days in jail and a fine of 500 to 1000 yuan. If they act in a group, target the elderly, pregnant women, children, or disabled individuals, or repeat the assault multiple times, the penalty rises to 10 to 15 days in jail and a fine of 1000 to 2000 yuan. Causing minor injuries to another person turns it into a criminal case, punishable by up to 3 years in prison; serious injuries bring a sentence of 3 to 10 years. When two people fight each other, it does not qualify as self-defense — the person who strikes first almost always suffers the consequences. Moving to a crowded area and calling the police is far more effective than retaliating.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “If a fight breaks out, call the police first — the one who strikes first almost always loses” to Future Me's calendar

There is no immediate alarm, so the sensible choice can wait for a less busy week.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-011

You may defend yourself against an unavoidable attack, but only strike the person who is actually attacking — stop when he stops.

躲不掉的侵害可以还手,但只打正在动手的那个人,他停你就停

To protect yourself or others from an ongoing attack, it is legally acceptable to intervene and injure the attacker. If someone is committing murder, robbery, rape, kidnapping, or any other violent crime, harming or even killing them is not considered excessive. However, you must only strike the person actively attacking — stop as soon as he ceases. Even if the court ultimately rules in your favor, the process is far from easy; many people are first charged and detained for several days. In total, 47 individuals have been recognized as acting in self-defense under these circumstances.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “You may defend yourself against an unavoidable attack, but only strike the person who is actually attacking — stop when he stops.” to Future Me's calendar

Future Me has a clearer calendar, more patience, and apparently the same responsibilities.

Today I keep a little money, a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-012

Who to hold accountable — unpaid wages, wrongful dismissal, financial losses — filing complaints, arbitration, or lawsuits instead of taking revenge

跟谁结了怨——被欠薪、被开除、被坑了钱——走投诉、仲裁、起诉,别去找人算账

Pursuing legal channels may ultimately leave you without any compensation. On the other hand, resorting to revenge achieves the same result — no money recovered — while also risking your own life. Consider the case in Wuxi: Xu failed to obtain his diploma and was dissatisfied with his internship pay, so he attacked people with a knife, killing 8 and injuring 17. He was sentenced to death, which was carried out. Nationwide in 2024, 654,000 workers recovered 8.65 billion yuan through complaints and arbitration for unpaid wages.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Who to hold accountable — unpaid wages, wrongful dismissal, financial losses — filing complaints, arbitration, or lawsuits instead of taking revenge” to Future Me's calendar

If I do not open the notes, no new task has technically appeared.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-013

No matter how angry you are, never target innocent people: deliberately driving into a crowd or committing violence in public is classified as endangering public safety by dangerous means, carrying a minimum sentence of three years; if anyone dies, the penalty is death.

再恨也别对不相干的人下手:驾车冲撞人群、在公共场所行凶按以危险方法危害公共安全定罪,起刑三年,死了人十年起步、最高死刑

Intentionally driving into a crowd or attacking people in public constitutes endangering public safety by dangerous means. Even if no one is injured, the offender still faces at least three years in prison. If fatalities occur, the sentence rises to ten years or more, life imprisonment, or death. In the Zhuhai case, Fan Weiqiu, dissatisfied with the divorce settlement, drove his car into a crowd exercising at a sports center, resulting in 35 deaths and 43 injuries; he was sentenced to death and executed.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “No matter how angry you are, never target innocent people: deliberately driving into a crowd or committing violence in public is classified as endangering public safety by dangerous means, carrying a minimum sentence of three years; if anyone dies, the penalty is death.” to Future Me's calendar

One more exception feels free because the bill arrives outside the current scene.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-014

Thoughts such as “find a scapegoat” or “die together” must be treated as a medical emergency: leave the scene, hand over car keys and knives to someone else, and call 12356.

冒出「拉个垫背的」「同归于尽」这种念头,当急症处理:离开现场,把车钥匙和刀交给别人,打 12356

The window between the first appearance of such thoughts and any attempt to act on them is very short. Among 82 people who survived a suicide attempt, 47.6% reported that no more than 10 minutes passed from the first thought to taking action. Therefore, the goal is not to “figure things out” intellectually, but to create physical distance between oneself and potential lethal tools — steering wheel, knife, gas valve, rope — and simply endure those ten minutes. After that, call 12356.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Thoughts such as “find a scapegoat” or “die together” must be treated as a medical emergency: leave the scene, hand over car keys and knives to someone else, and call 12356.” to Future Me's calendar

I can spend longer deciding whether to start than the small action would take.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-015

Family members say “no one will be safe” or “I’ll take the kids and leave” — don’t dismiss this as anger: close relatives can take such a person to the hospital, and police must respond to any emergency call.

身边人说出「谁也别想好过」「带着孩子一起走」,别当气话:近亲属可以直接送诊,公安接到报警也必须管

When family members say things like “no one will be safe” or “I’ll take the kids and leave,” close relatives have the right to take that person to a hospital, where treatment cannot be refused. If there has already been violence or an imminent risk of harm, hospitalization does not require the person’s consent. If it’s unclear whether these statements are just angry outbursts or genuine threats, call 12356 for advice or dial 110 so police can intervene. Keeping this information secret does not help the person at all.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Family members say “no one will be safe” or “I’ll take the kids and leave” — don’t dismiss this as anger: close relatives can take such a person to the hospital, and police must respond to any emergency call.” to Future Me's calendar

The routine already works until the day the source says it may not.

Today I keep a little money, a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-016

Don’t curse, spread rumors, or share unverified content online; if you’re a victim of online abuse, document evidence first then report it to police

网上不骂人、不造谣、不转发没核实的事;被网暴先留证再报警

Publicly cursing, spreading rumors or defaming others can result in detention for up to 5 days or a fine of up to 1000 yuan; for more serious cases, detention ranges from 5 to 10 days. If the circumstances are especially grave, it constitutes the crimes of insult or defamation, punishable by up to 3 years in prison. Simply sharing such content also makes you liable. Conversely, if you’re a victim of online abuse, you generally have to file a lawsuit in court yourself to pursue legal action for insult or defamation, so you must rely on yourself to take screenshots, record video and save links.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Don’t curse, spread rumors, or share unverified content online; if you’re a victim of online abuse, document evidence first then report it to police” to Future Me's calendar

There is no immediate alarm, so the sensible choice can wait for a less busy week.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-017

Read the document thoroughly before signing; never sign on behalf of others or on blank paper

签字前把纸看完,不替人签字,不在空白纸上签

Once signed, the document becomes legally binding. Claims such as “I didn’t read it properly” or “I thought it said something else” rarely hold up in court. Therefore, it’s essential to spend those few minutes reading everything, ask for clarification when needed, and document it all with photos. Never sign for someone else, never sign on blank paper, and always specify the intended purpose when providing a copy of your ID. Electronic signatures and facial recognition verification also count as valid signatures.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Read the document thoroughly before signing; never sign on behalf of others or on blank paper” to Future Me's calendar

Future Me has a clearer calendar, more patience, and apparently the same responsibilities.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-018

Write a clear loan agreement when lending money; think carefully before agreeing to be a guarantor

借钱写清借条,替人担保前先想清楚自己愿不愿意替他还

The loan agreement must include all essential details: who the lender and borrower are, the amount, interest rate, term, and repayment method, plus signatures from both sides. Use a bank transfer instead of cash to make legal enforcement easier. Before agreeing to be a guarantor, check whether the contract mentions “joint and several liability.” Under ordinary guarantee arrangements, creditors must first sue the borrower and exhaust all collection efforts before seeking payment from you. However, if you sign a joint and several liability guarantee, creditors can demand repayment from you directly.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Write a clear loan agreement when lending money; think carefully before agreeing to be a guarantor” to Future Me's calendar

If I do not open the notes, no new task has technically appeared.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-019

Time limits for legal action: 3 years for civil lawsuits, 1 year for labor arbitration; once the deadline passes, a simple “statute of limitations exceeded” claim can block your case

维权有期限:民事诉讼时效 3 年,劳动仲裁 1 年,过了对方一句「超过时效」就够

The statute of limitations for civil lawsuits is three years, counted from the day you become aware your rights were violated. Once that period ends, the court won’t act on its own; however, if the debtor simply argues “the deadline has passed,” you lose the right to recover what’s owed. A single documented demand for payment can reset that three‑year clock entirely. Labor disputes follow a different rule: the arbitration deadline is just one year.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Time limits for legal action: 3 years for civil lawsuits, 1 year for labor arbitration; once the deadline passes, a simple “statute of limitations exceeded” claim can block your case” to Future Me's calendar

One more exception feels free because the bill arrives outside the current scene.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-020

If you’re being sued or have a court order against you, report all your assets truthfully and repay as much as you can — don’t transfer your house or money to relatives, friends, or companies.

被起诉、被执行了,如实报财产、能还多少还多少,别把房和钱转给亲友或公司

Putting your house in a company’s name or transferring money to relatives or friends isn’t some clever “workaround” — it falls squarely under the circumstances described in the law on refusal to execute court orders. Conviction for this offense carries a sentence of up to three years; in especially serious cases, the sentence is three to seven years. Relatives, friends, or companies that help hide or transfer assets are treated as accomplices, and those assets must be recovered. Failing to report assets or providing false information can result in fines of up to 100000 yuan and up to 15 days of detention. However, if you truly have no money, this crime does not apply.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “If you’re being sued or have a court order against you, report all your assets truthfully and repay as much as you can — don’t transfer your house or money to relatives, friends, or companies.” to Future Me's calendar

I can spend longer deciding whether to start than the small action would take.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-021

If you’re subject to spending restrictions or listed on the dishonesty registry, first find out which rule applies and request removal if possible

被限制消费或者被列入失信名单,先查清是按哪一条纳入的,能纠正的申请纠正

First, determine whether you’re only subject to spending restrictions or also listed on the dishonesty registry — these are two separate situations. Only six specific circumstances allow inclusion on the dishonesty registry, and the listing period is two years. In seven other cases, including when all obligations have been fulfilled, the court must remove the listing within three working days. Spending restrictions apply to nine categories of non-essential purchases, including travel on G-series high-speed trains. Any spending essential for daily life or business operations can be approved individually upon application.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “If you’re subject to spending restrictions or listed on the dishonesty registry, first find out which rule applies and request removal if possible” to Future Me's calendar

The routine already works until the day the source says it may not.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-022

If scammed while shopping online or via second-hand markets, first file a complaint with the platform, then report it to police, and finally decide whether to sue.

网购、二手交易被骗,先平台投诉,再报警,再算值不值得起诉

Start by contacting the platform. Platforms maintain security deposits and strict penalty rules, so they act fastest. Next, call the police: if the loss exceeds 3000 yuan, it meets the threshold for a criminal fraud case; otherwise it falls under public‑order penalties, which can result in a detention of 5 to 10 days. If you decide to sue, online‑purchase disputes can be filed in the court nearest to the delivery address. For smaller amounts, a small‑claims procedure applies, guaranteeing a verdict within two months and allowing online filing.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “If scammed while shopping online or via second-hand markets, first file a complaint with the platform, then report it to police, and finally decide whether to sue.” to Future Me's calendar

There is no immediate alarm, so the sensible choice can wait for a less busy week.

Today I keep a little money, a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-023

Think carefully before and after making large gifts in romantic relationships or marriage

恋爱和婚内的大额赠与,交付之前想清楚,交付之后原则上要不回

Once the money is transferred, you generally cannot get it back. A gift can only be revoked before it is officially registered under the recipient’s name. After that, revocation is only possible under three specific circumstances: the recipient seriously harms you or your close relatives; fails to fulfill their legal obligation to support you; or breaches any agreed terms of the gift contract. Therefore, decide early whether the payment is a loan or a gift.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Think carefully before and after making large gifts in romantic relationships or marriage” to Future Me's calendar

Future Me has a clearer calendar, more patience, and apparently the same responsibilities.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-024

Transfer betrothal gifts via payment with clear notes; keep chat records; money demanded under marriage can be reclaimed

彩礼走转账并备注,聊天记录留好;借婚姻要钱可以要回

Demanding money under the guise of marriage is illegal, and courts support claims for repayment. Repayment can be demanded in three cases: no marriage registration took place; registration occurred but no actual cohabitation followed; betrothal gifts were given before marriage, leaving the giver in financial hardship. If registration occurred and cohabitation did follow, repayment is generally not required. However, if cohabitation was brief and the gift amount was excessively high, courts will determine the repayment proportion based on how the money was used, presence of dowry, whether children were born, and any fault on either side. For couples who cohabited without registration, the same proportional rule applies (nationwide, effective February 2024). Therefore, always transfer betrothal gifts, wedding jewelry, and related payments via bank transfer with clear notes, and both parties must keep proper evidence.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Transfer betrothal gifts via payment with clear notes; keep chat records; money demanded under marriage can be reclaimed” to Future Me's calendar

If I do not open the notes, no new task has technically appeared.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-025

No need to worry about premarital assets — clearly define property additions and parental contributions

婚前财产不用怕,房子加名和父母出资先写清楚

Premarital assets remain your personal property and won’t automatically become joint marital property just because you’ve been married for many years. Couples can put in writing that premarital and postmarital assets belong to each person individually. One important caveat: if you agree to add your spouse’s name to a property title, you can still revoke that agreement before completing the official registration; once registration is finalized, the property becomes their legal property. In divorce proceedings, any party that hides, transfers, squanders or falsifies debts related to shared assets may receive a smaller share or no share at all.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “No need to worry about premarital assets — clearly define property additions and parental contributions” to Future Me's calendar

One more exception feels free because the bill arrives outside the current scene.

Today I keep a little money, a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-026

Check a person’s marital status before getting married; those who use marriage as a pretext to defraud money can be prosecuted for fraud.

结婚前核对对方婚姻状况,以结婚为幌子骗钱的按诈骗罪追究

Marriages involving bigamy are invalid. Anyone who already has a spouse yet marries again, or who knowingly marries someone who already has a spouse, faces up to 2 years in prison. Those who use marriage as a ruse to steal money can be charged with fraud: if the amount taken is relatively large, they get up to 3 years; if it’s huge, 3 to 10 years; if it’s exceptionally massive, 10 years or life imprisonment. Always verify the marital status on the ID card and household register before tying the knot.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Check a person’s marital status before getting married; those who use marriage as a pretext to defraud money can be prosecuted for fraud.” to Future Me's calendar

I can spend longer deciding whether to start than the small action would take.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-027

For home appliance repairs, vehicle inspections, and renovations: always ask for a quote first and stay on site throughout the process.

上门维修、验车、装修,先问价再动手,全程在旁边看着

Appliance repair services must clearly display their pricing, provide customers with a receipt and invoice, and must not falsely claim that a problem exists or deliberately replace parts that are still in good working condition. In serious cases, fines of up to 30,000 yuan can be imposed. All service providers must post their prices openly and cannot charge any amount beyond those listed. Therefore, always ask for a detailed quote and a list of parts to be replaced before work starts; after completion, request a receipt and invoice, and keep the old parts. If you are overcharged, contact 12315 immediately.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “For home appliance repairs, vehicle inspections, and renovations: always ask for a quote first and stay on site throughout the process.” to Future Me's calendar

The routine already works until the day the source says it may not.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-028

Don’t be a “nominal legal representative” — don’t lend your ID to register a company

别当「挂名法人」,别把身份证借给人注册公司

The law assumes the legal representative is the person actually managing the company; claiming “I’m just a figurehead and know nothing” does not serve as a valid excuse to avoid liability. If a legal representative causes harm to others while performing duties, the company must compensate first, then may seek reimbursement from the negligent representative. For those already serving in this role, company law allows them to resign, provided the company appoints a new legal representative within 30 days.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Don’t be a “nominal legal representative” — don’t lend your ID to register a company” to Future Me's calendar

There is no immediate alarm, so the sensible choice can wait for a less busy week.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-029

Don’t carry items for strangers when traveling, and don’t accept packages of unknown origin

出入境不帮陌生人带东西,不代收来路不明的包裹

The Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises travelers to avoid carrying luggage or items for others, especially prohibited goods or anything they know nothing about. If drugs or contraband are later found in your luggage, you’ll be responsible for proving that you had no knowledge of them. The same applies to receiving parcels domestically — especially when someone asks you to pay upfront and promises a refund later.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Don’t carry items for strangers when traveling, and don’t accept packages of unknown origin” to Future Me's calendar

Future Me has a clearer calendar, more patience, and apparently the same responsibilities.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-030

Leashing dogs is mandatory: failure to do so means strict liability for any harm caused (you must pay compensation regardless of fault), and the obligation extends fully

养狗必须牵绳:不牵绳出了事是无过错责任(你有没有错都要赔),赔到底。狗还要按时打狂犬病疫苗、办养犬登记

If a dog injures someone, the owner is generally required to pay compensation, no matter how much fault they bear. Only when it can be proven that the injured party acted intentionally or with gross negligence might the compensation amount be reduced or waived. However, if the owner violated regulations by not using a leash, the sole remaining defense — “intentional conduct by the injured party” — is effectively eliminated; failing to leash a dog shuts off this one last avenue for reducing liability. For owners of prohibited aggressive breeds, there are absolutely no legal grounds for exemption from compensation.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Leashing dogs is mandatory: failure to do so means strict liability for any harm caused (you must pay compensation regardless of fault), and the obligation extends fully” to Future Me's calendar

If I do not open the notes, no new task has technically appeared.

Today I keep a little money, a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-031

If the other person is intoxicated, unconscious, or under 14, do not have sex with them

对方喝到意识不清、睡着,或者可能不满 14 岁,就不要发生关系

If the other person is intoxicated or asleep, they cannot give informed consent. Having sex with them in such a state is legally classified as rape, carrying a base sentence of 3 to 10 years in prison. After the fact, it is nearly impossible to prove they had consented at the time. The only reliable course of action is to abstain from sex, and once the gathering ends, ensure they are returned to their own friends or family. Age verification follows Section 9, Article 18 (under 14 years of age).

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “If the other person is intoxicated, unconscious, or under 14, do not have sex with them” to Future Me's calendar

One more exception feels free because the bill arrives outside the current scene.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-032

If someone threatens to call the police, post intimate photos, or inform your workplace unless you pay up — don’t give them a single cent and don’t delete any records; call the police right away.

发生关系、裸聊之后对方拿报警、发照片、告诉你单位来要钱,一分钱不给,一条记录不删,直接报警

Using threats like “I’ll call the cops” or “I’ll send these photos to your boss” to force you to pay is extortion. Paying even once only invites more demands. If they actually post the photos, that adds another criminal charge. Extortion involving sums between 2,000 and 5,000 yuan carries a maximum sentence of three years; amounts from 30,000 to 100,000 yuan can lead to 3–10 years behind bars.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “If someone threatens to call the police, post intimate photos, or inform your workplace unless you pay up — don’t give them a single cent and don’t delete any records; call the police right away.” to Future Me's calendar

I can spend longer deciding whether to start than the small action would take.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-033

If someone falsely accuses you, you can seek legal consequences: up to 5 days of detention for minor violations, up to 3 years in prison for criminal acts

被人捏造事实举报,可以要求追究:够治安处罚的拘留 5 日起,够罪的判 3 年以下

It is illegal to make up false accusations in an attempt to get someone punished under criminal or public order laws. For minor violations, offenders may face up to 5 days of detention or a fine under $1000. More serious cases can result in 5–10 days of detention, possibly with a similar fine. When the actions meet the threshold for a crime, they fall under the offense of false accusation, punishable by up to 3 years in prison. However, simple mistakes or unintentional errors do not count as intentional wrongdoing. To hold someone accountable, you must prove they acted with deliberate malice.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “If someone falsely accuses you, you can seek legal consequences: up to 5 days of detention for minor violations, up to 3 years in prison for criminal acts” to Future Me's calendar

The routine already works until the day the source says it may not.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-034

Insufficient evidence alone warrants acquittal; coerced confessions must be excluded; appeals and retrials remain possible after conviction

证据不足本来就应当判无罪,逼出来的口供应当排除;判了还有申诉和再审

The Criminal Procedure Law sets clear thresholds for conviction: evidence must be verified through legally prescribed procedures and must collectively leave no reasonable doubt about the facts. When these criteria cannot be met, acquittal is mandatory. Confessions extracted via torture or testimonies obtained through violence and threats must be excluded from consideration and cannot serve as a basis for sentencing. Once a verdict takes effect, the defendant, their legal representatives, and close relatives retain the right to file an appeal.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Insufficient evidence alone warrants acquittal; coerced confessions must be excluded; appeals and retrials remain possible after conviction” to Future Me's calendar

There is no immediate alarm, so the sensible choice can wait for a less busy week.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-035

For individuals released from detention after a case is dropped, charges are withdrawn, or they are acquitted, applying for state compensation is possible — compensation is calculated on a daily basis.

被羁押后撤案、不起诉或者判无罪的,去申请国家赔偿,按天算钱

If you were detained or arrested and later released when the case was dropped, charges were withdrawn, or you were acquitted, you may apply for state compensation. Compensation is paid for each day spent in custody. Starting May 18, 2026, the daily rate is 495.94 yuan, amounting to roughly 180,000 yuan per year. In cases involving severe harm, additional compensation for emotional distress may also be awarded. However, no compensation applies if you committed an offense but were not prosecuted due to minor circumstances, if the statute of limitations has expired, or if you provided false statements yourself.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “For individuals released from detention after a case is dropped, charges are withdrawn, or they are acquitted, applying for state compensation is possible — compensation is calculated on a daily basis.” to Future Me's calendar

Future Me has a clearer calendar, more patience, and apparently the same responsibilities.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-036

If you’re a victim seeking compensation, use channels like 12315, file a lawsuit, or hire a lawyer. Never meet the offending party alone, and don’t phrase “paying money” and “I won’t expose you” as a single condition.

自己是受害人去索赔,走 12315、起诉或者律师,别单独赴对方的约,别把「给钱」和「我不曝光」绑成一句话

As a victim, you have every legal right to demand compensation from the party responsible for the harm — this doesn’t automatically make you a blackmailer just because your demands are high. Yet the consequences can be severe: Guo Li was initially sentenced to five years in prison for extortion before being later exonerated on appeal. Therefore, always use documented channels, avoid meeting the other party alone at a location they choose, and never link “paying money” with “I won’t go public” as one condition.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “If you’re a victim seeking compensation, use channels like 12315, file a lawsuit, or hire a lawyer. Never meet the offending party alone, and don’t phrase “paying money” and “I won’t expose you” as a single condition.” to Future Me's calendar

If I do not open the notes, no new task has technically appeared.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-037

Cyberbullying: First enable protections, gather evidence, then choose between court injunctions, private prosecution, or police reports

被网暴了:先开防护、先固证,再在平台、禁令、报警三条路里挑

Do three things immediately: turn on all platform safety settings, use the platform’s quick evidence‑collection tools to preserve content, and file a report through the same quick access point. After that, you can pick one of three options. First, ask the court for a personal rights injunction to make the harasser stop. Second, file a private prosecution yourself; if gathering evidence proves difficult, you can request police assistance. Third, if the consequences are especially severe and the impact widespread, the case may be turned into a public prosecution so you won’t have to provide evidence yourself.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Cyberbullying: First enable protections, gather evidence, then choose between court injunctions, private prosecution, or police reports” to Future Me's calendar

One more exception feels free because the bill arrives outside the current scene.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-038

The legal route of “buying insurance for a family member first, then harming them” is completely blocked: you get zero money, and the perpetrator faces multiple charges including intentional homicide and insurance fraud.

「先给人买保险再动手」这条路法律上从头堵死:钱一分拿不到,罪按故意杀人加保险诈骗数罪并罚

All four possible pathways are shut down. Buying life insurance for a loved one without their knowledge renders the policy invalid. If the policyholder deliberately causes the insured’s death, the insurer pays nothing. Intentionally killing an heir also results in loss of inheritance rights. Chinese law treats such insurance fraud as a separate crime, which is punished alongside intentional homicide — up to the death penalty. In short, you walk away with absolutely no compensation. Exactly 1000000 people are affected by such illegal acts.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “The legal route of “buying insurance for a family member first, then harming them” is completely blocked: you get zero money, and the perpetrator faces multiple charges including intentional homicide and insurance fraud.” to Future Me's calendar

I can spend longer deciding whether to start than the small action would take.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-039

You must obtain a case receipt when reporting a crime; if no case is opened, you must receive a written notice. You can request a reconsideration within 7 days and a review within another 7 days. The procuratorate can also order the police to open a case.

报警当场要受案回执,不立案要书面通知:7 日内可申请复议,再 7 日可申请复核,检察院能通知公安立案

Reporting a crime and having a case officially opened are two separate steps. When the police accept a case, they must provide you with a case receipt — this document is the sole proof that you actually filed a report. If they decide not to open a case, they must issue a written notice explaining this decision. If you disagree, you may request a reconsideration within 7 days, and if still unsatisfied, a further review within another 7 days. You may also approach the procuratorate to ensure the police fulfill their duty to open the case.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “You must obtain a case receipt when reporting a crime; if no case is opened, you must receive a written notice. You can request a reconsideration within 7 days and a review within another 7 days. The procuratorate can also order the police to open a case.” to Future Me's calendar

The routine already works until the day the source says it may not.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-040

Don’t give money or cards to investigators, law enforcers: offering bribes is a crime, and bribing oversight, law enforcement, and judicial staff is punished even more severely.

别给办案、执法的人送钱送卡:行贿自己也判,对监察、执法、司法人员行贿还要从重

“Paying a little money to smooth things over” is a standalone offense under criminal law; those arrested are not only the recipients of the bribes. Offering bribes carries a sentence of up to 3 years in prison; for more serious cases, the term is 3 to 10 years, and for especially grave cases, over 10 years or even life imprisonment. Bribing oversight, administrative law enforcement, and judicial staff falls under the explicitly stipulated category of aggravated offenses. However, if someone is coerced into paying money but fails to obtain any improper benefits, this does not count as bribery.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Don’t give money or cards to investigators, law enforcers: offering bribes is a crime, and bribing oversight, law enforcement, and judicial staff is punished even more severely.” to Future Me's calendar

There is no immediate alarm, so the sensible choice can wait for a less busy week.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-041

For calls and in-person talks where things might turn sour, start recording right away: you can record conversations you personally take part in without needing prior consent from the other party.

可能翻脸的电话和面谈,直接开录音:自己参加的谈话,不用先征得对方同意

When it comes to loans, debts, compensation, refunds, or labor disputes, misunderstandings can arise months later even if everything was discussed clearly on the phone with no written record. Recording these conversations yourself is perfectly legal, even if the other party wasn’t informed beforehand; this alone won’t disqualify the recording as evidence. What you must not do is eavesdrop, spy on someone’s private life, break into their home to record secretly, or coerce them into speaking.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “For calls and in-person talks where things might turn sour, start recording right away: you can record conversations you personally take part in without needing prior consent from the other party.” to Future Me's calendar

Future Me has a clearer calendar, more patience, and apparently the same responsibilities.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-042

In an emergency at the scene, first film a wide shot, then capture the spatial relationships, and finally record the damage and injuries — keep the original photos and videos.

现场出了事,先拍全景,再拍位置关系,最后拍损坏和伤情,原图原视频别删

If you only film close‑ups of a single scratch on a car or an isolated object on the ground, later on no one will know where they originally were. Begin by recording a wide shot that includes the intersection, street signs, vehicles, people, and surroundings; then film how these elements relate to one another, and finally capture the details. If you must move objects or vehicles, do so only after filming. Keep the original photos and videos on your phone — don’t rely solely on copies sent via messaging apps.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “In an emergency at the scene, first film a wide shot, then capture the spatial relationships, and finally record the damage and injuries — keep the original photos and videos.” to Future Me's calendar

If I do not open the notes, no new task has technically appeared.

Today I keep a few minutes and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-043

Domestic violence: Call the police to get an incident report, then apply to court for a protection order — no divorce required and it’s free

被家暴了:先报警留下出警记录,再去法院申请人身安全保护令,不用先离婚,也不收费

Worldwide, over one third of all female homicide victims are killed by their partners — often as a final outcome of long‑term abuse. Among women who have suffered physical abuse, those who have been strangled have a risk of later being murdered that is more than seven times higher than for women who were never strangled. Therefore, if you’ve been beaten, call the police right away and then apply for a protection order. Courts are required to respond within 72 hours.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Domestic violence: Call the police to get an incident report, then apply to court for a protection order — no divorce required and it’s free” to Future Me's calendar

One more exception feels free because the bill arrives outside the current scene.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-044

Family members have gambling debts — don’t rush to pay them: gambling debts aren’t legally protected, nor are loans taken for gambling considered joint marital debts

家里人赌博欠了债,别急着替他还:赌债法律不保护,为赌借的钱也不算夫妻共同债务

Money owed from gambling isn’t protected by courts. Even if creditors know the borrower is using the funds for gambling, those loans still get no legal protection. Any debt incurred by one spouse for gambling purposes can’t be treated as a joint marital obligation. Without a court ruling, the non-borrowing spouse can’t be held responsible for repayment.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Family members have gambling debts — don’t rush to pay them: gambling debts aren’t legally protected, nor are loans taken for gambling considered joint marital debts” to Future Me's calendar

I can spend longer deciding whether to start than the small action would take.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-045

Do not lend your face, identity, or verification code for someone else's loan

熟人让你「帮忙刷个脸、做个见证」去办贷款,或者要你念验证码,别答应:这叫 AB 贷,借款人是你,不是担保人

If a loan is taken in your name, you may be the borrower rather than a witness or guarantor. A private promise from the acquaintance may not protect you from the lender.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Do not lend your face, identity, or verification code for someone else's loan” to Future Me's calendar

The routine already works until the day the source says it may not.

Today I keep a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off
08-046

Use working door and window locks and lock them; a single alarm may not deter burglary

给门窗装好锁、门外装一盏感应灯,出门真的锁上:防入室盗窃靠这几样,单装一个报警器看不出用

The cited UK studies associate door and window locks, especially with exterior lighting, with lower burglary risk. An alarm alone did not show the same association in the cited comparison.

Open the low-ROI detour

Move “Use working door and window locks and lock them; a single alarm may not deter burglary” to Future Me's calendar

There is no immediate alarm, so the sensible choice can wait for a less busy week.

Today I keep a little money, a few minutes, a bit of persistence and avoid interrupting my default routine.

Read the source and trade-off

Source snapshot: a994b6a0c90598b0fe15cb837343f438dbf7b95d. Every original stays available in Chinese alongside the English edition.