Forty-seven cases of compensated dating scams in one week, involving more than HK$3m

In the past week, Hong Kong police have reported forty-seven cases of fraudulent activities related to fake compensated dating scams, involving losses exceeding HK$3 million.

The police's anti-fraud social media page, "Cyberdefender," highlighted this issue yesterday (Sep 5), noting that approximately 20 percent of the victims are female.

Scammers typically pose as attractive individuals on popular social platforms, dating apps, and instant messaging software to lure victims.

They establish a connection and suggest that they can offer services to advance the relationship.

However, before any meeting, the scammer concocts a story about fearing police interference and demands the victim purchases gaming top-up cards, gift cards, or transfer money as a security deposit.

They may also ask for a copy of the victim's ID card and other personal details.

Once the payment is made, the scammer usually vanishes. If they have obtained sufficient personal information, they may even threaten the victim to extort more money, threatening harm to the victim or their family if the demands are not met.

Out of fear for personal safety, victims often continue to comply until they can no longer afford to pay.

The police urge the public to be vigilant and recognize the signs of a scam. They warn that requests for purchasing point cards or paying deposits before meeting someone from the internet are likely indicators of a scam.

Additionally, they caution that compensated dating is fraught with risks and advise residents against engaging in such activities.