Caritas line handles over 300 scam debt requests, with one in three at suicide risk

The Crisis Line, operated by the Caritas Family Crisis Support Centre, received over 300 debt assistance requests stemming from scams last year, accounting for 8 percent of the overall 3,983 debt-related cases handled.

This figure represents a 3 percent decrease compared to the previous year. However, over 31 percent of individuals in these cases were at risk of suicide and required crisis intervention.

One victim, who lost their savings and incurred over a hundred thousand dollars in debt after receiving a fraudulent text message, experienced severe emotional distress and even contemplated suicide following the scam.

The organization reported that women accounted for 60 percent of first-time help-seeking cases related to scams, with the majority falling within the 30 to 39 age group.

Meanwhile, investment scams were the most common among the cases, followed by financial intermediary fraud.

A significant number of individuals had debts ranging from HK$200,000 to HK$500,000, while 18 percent owed over HK$1 million.

The organization urged victims to seek help from family, friends, or professionals, noting that some remain reluctant to do so despite enhanced public awareness due to recent anti-fraud education efforts.