As children and teens use social media and online games more often, online dating scams have become a concern for parents and schools. The Criminal Investigation Division of the Taitung County Police Bureau recently joined a child protection campaign, using a fair booth, interactive games and case examples to help students identify scam tactics online.
Police said scammers may use unfamiliar accounts to build trust through chatting, compliments or closeness. They may then claim family hardship, account deposits or locked game points, asking children to buy game points, send serial numbers or even provide parents' ATM card passwords.
Unlike investment or shopping scams often targeting adults, child and teen cases are more related to online friends, games and privacy. Police used quizzes and game stations to turn common scam lines into scenarios, helping students understand that requests for money, game points, passwords or private images may be danger signs.
If a child suddenly asks for unusual money, often buys game points or hides phone messages, parents should first ask with concern instead of blame. Families can also set online friendship boundaries and remind children not to share personal data, photos, videos, account passwords or family financial information.
For suspected scams, call the 165 anti-fraud hotline for verification. In emergencies, call 110 to report to police. Related campaigns will later extend to schools and local activities, reminding children and teens to stay alert online.
