Editorial | Hong Kong police’s fight against scams needs more public support
Scams might be down in Hong Kong but they still comprise nearly half of all crimes. Vigilance and community support are vital
Hong Kong remains one of the safest cities in the world, but we do need to get better at detecting and deterring scams.
There is only so much police can do. Once the crime has been committed, victims may not get their losses back even if the criminals are caught. The public needs to be more aware and alert. Companies, especially financial institutions such as banks, need to offer more and better provisions and procedures to protect customers. The elderly are especially vulnerable.
There were 43,212 scam cases last year, with victims losing a total of HK$8.1 billion (US$1 billion), down from losses of HK$9.2 billion in 2024. Overall, less than one in three of all reported crimes are solved. While overall scams fell, those related to concerts, investment and employment rose.
Some 2,805 scams related to the sale of concert tickets were recorded last year, a 60 per cent jump from 2024. The opening of Kai Tak Sports Park as a new major entertainment venue was a factor.
Investment scams causing the most financial losses rose by 30 per cent, with 5,135 cases incurring losses of HK$3.58 billion. The average loss from a scam was HK$700,000, compared to HK$580,000 in 2024.