Hong Kong police have warned criminals are taking advantage of young residents in a wide range of cybercrime and deception activities, with more than 900 students falling victim to “naked-chat blackmail” and dating scams last year.
The figure was in sharp focus on Monday as the force launched the third edition of its crime prevention booklet for young people, with 50,000 copies to be distributed to schools and youth service centres.
Commissioner of Police Raymond Siu Chak-yee said cybercrime was on the rise globally as people increasingly went online for activities such as shopping, investing and dating.
“Cybercrime affects people of all ages, they not only fall prey to those crimes but are also used [by criminals] to aid those activities,” he said.
“But [police] have fewer opportunities to come in contact with young people compared with teachers, social workers and parents, so we need to work together to help deliver our knowledge and messages.”
