Warning issued after university student loses HK$190,000 in internship scam

In recent weeks, Hong Kong police have issued a warning to university students about a new wave of scams targeting those seeking summer internships. The alert comes after a 19-year-old first-year university student lost nearly HK$190,000 (US$24,230) to con artists who posed as recruiters. The scammers used a sophisticated approach, including a bogus 40-minute orientation session, to make their job offers appear legitimate.

The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was lured by an online advertisement for a summer internship. The scammers, who spoke in English, presented themselves as representatives of a reputable company. They conducted a detailed recruitment process, including the fake orientation session, to build credibility. The student, who was eager to secure the internship, provided the scammers with personal and financial information, ultimately losing a significant sum of money.

Hong Kong police have emphasized that the scammers had prepared detailed scripts to deceive the victim. This highlights the sophistication of the scam and the need for students to be vigilant. The force advises students to verify the legitimacy of internship offers through official channels, such as the university's career services or the company's official website. It also recommends avoiding the transfer of large sums of money to unknown entities.

This incident is part of a growing trend of cybercrimes targeting young people in Hong Kong. As more students seek internships and job opportunities online, scammers have adapted their tactics to exploit the situation. The police have urged universities and educational institutions to raise awareness about such scams and educate students on how to identify potential threats.

In response to the warning, some students have expressed concern about the safety of online job searches. Many have shared their experiences of encountering suspicious job offers and the importance of due diligence before committing to an opportunity. Others have called for stricter regulations and better protection for young people in the digital age.

Hong Kong police have launched an investigation into the scam and are urging anyone with information to come forward. They have also urged the public to report suspicious activities to help prevent further losses. The warning serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with unverified job offers and the importance of staying alert in an increasingly connected world.

As the internship season approaches, students are advised to exercise caution and prioritize verifying the authenticity of job offers. The police's warning serves as a call to action for both individuals and institutions to work together in combating these sophisticated scams and protecting vulnerable populations from financial exploitation.