Rising deception cases amid decrease in traditional crimes in Hong Kong

Commissioner of Police Raymond Siu Chak-yee, in revealing an update on Hong Kong's law and order, said that while traditional crime rates have fallen, deception cases surged dramatically in 2024. 

The total number of criminal cases reached 94,747, a 5 percent increase from last year, driven primarily by a significant rise in online scams.

Siu reported 44,480 deception cases, reflecting an 11.7 percent increase compared to the previous year. 

Among these, 61.8 percent involved online scams, accounting for nearly half of all criminal cases.

Although telecom fraud remains prevalent, Siu saw a noticeable decline in its frequency. 

Excluding deception cases, overall crime figures decreased by 185 incidents, and the detection rate improved by 1.7 percent to 47.9 percent. 

Siu said that the rise in deception cases is the key factor behind the overall increase in crime rates and the dip in detection efficiency.

To tackle this issue, the police force will implement a comprehensive "blanket coverage" strategy to promote anti-fraud messages. 

Addressing concerns about mainland exchange students, Siu said that seminars and posters at universities are being used to raise awareness, though many students displayed a casual attitude towards the risks.

Alarmingly, 80 percent of the scammed mainland students were first-year students, targeted due to their inexperience and the timing of their arrival in Hong Kong. 

Siu urged citizens to remain vigilant and share anti-fraud messages, even if they believe they are not personally affected.

(Marcus Lum)