Foreign residents in Japan are facing two growing public safety threats as 2025 draws to a close: a sharp increase in fires caused by lithium-ion batteries and a surge in sophisticated payment scams targeting digital wallet users. According to NHK, the Tokyo Fire Department has issued urgent warnings after lithium-ion battery fires reached alarming levels this year. Through September 2025, Tokyo recorded 228 fires caused by products containing these batteries—including mobile battery packs, smartphones, and other portable electronic devices. This figure is already on pace to exceed 2024's total, which was previously the highest on record. The timing of the warning is particularly significant as Japan enters the traditional year-end house cleaning period known as ōsōji. During this time, many residents sort through accumulated belongings, potentially disturbing old or damaged electronic devices that pose fire risks. The Tokyo Fire Department emphasizes that lithium-ion batteries can ignite when physically damaged, improperly stored, or exposed to extreme temperatures. For expats living in Japan, this warning carries practical implications. Many foreign residents accumulate multiple electronic devices during their stay—old smartphones kept as backups, portable chargers purchased for travel, or electronic gadgets that have been replaced but never properly disposed of. The Fire Department's alert serves as a reminder to inspect these items carefully during year-end cleaning. Damaged batteries often show visible warning signs: swelling or bulging of the battery case, unusual heat generation during charging, or devices that no longer hold a charge properly. Any electronics displaying these symptoms should not be thrown in regular trash. Japan's strict waste separation rules require lithium-ion batteries to be disposed of at designated collection points, typically found at electronics retailers or municipal collection centers. Simultaneously, Japanese authorities are warning about a different threat to personal safety: payment scams targeting users of code-based payment systems. According to reports covered by Livedoor News, consultations regarding QR code payment fraud have reached record highs in 2025. In some documented cases, victims have lost approximately 100,000 yen (roughly $670 USD) to these schemes. These scams typically involve fraudsters tricking users into scanning malicious QR codes or sharing payment authentication information. The schemes have become increasingly sophisticated, sometimes impersonating legitimate businesses, delivery services, or even government agencies. For foreign residents who may be less familiar with Japanese-language warning signs or common fraud patterns, the risk can be particularly acute. The payment scam trend reflects the rapid adoption of cashless payment systems in Japan. Services like PayPay, LINE Pay, and Rakuten Pay have become ubiquitous, especially in urban areas. While these platforms offer convenience, they've also created new opportunities for criminals to exploit users unfamiliar with digital security best practices. Experts recommend several protective measures: never scan QR codes from unsolicited messages or emails, verify the authenticity of payment requests through official channels, enable two-factor authentication on all payment apps, and regularly monitor transaction histories for unauthorized charges. Both threats underscore the importance of staying informed about evolving safety risks in Japan. The Tokyo Fire Department and consumer protection agencies regularly publish safety information, often available in multiple languages through municipal websites and the Japan Meteorological Agency's alert systems. As Japan's foreign resident population continues to grow—exceeding 3 million in recent years—authorities are increasingly recognizing the need for multilingual safety communications. Expats should familiarize themselves with local emergency procedures and consider registering for alert services offered by their ward or city offices. With proper awareness and precautions, foreign residents can protect themselves from both physical fire hazards and digital fraud as they navigate daily life in Japan.