This week's five major headlines include:
The 165 Anti-Fraud Hotline reminds the public never to share OTP verification codes to prevent account theft and fraud. The Health Promotion Administration says that although underage drinking has declined, family and peer influence remains a concern. New Taipei City and Taipei City have launched the AI Bus Station Assistant, allowing passengers to check bus information by scanning a QR code. During the Urban Resilience Air Defense Exercise, Taiwan High Speed Rail advises passengers to collect tickets and plan transportation in advance. In addition, Taiwan Railway has updated its student discount program, offering the same discount regardless of booking time for eligible students.

Let's take a look at this week's top stories.

Never Share Your OTP Verification Code to Prevent Fraud
Fraudsters often use fake text messages, customer service calls, websites, or investment platforms to trick people into entering one-time passwords (OTPs), allowing them to steal money or access accounts. The 165 Anti-Fraud Hotline reminds the public that OTPs protect bank accounts, credit cards, and e-payment services. Banks, government agencies, and online shopping platforms will never ask for your OTP. Avoid clicking suspicious links, never share your OTP, and call 165 if you encounter anything suspicious.

Youth Drinking Declines, but Concerns Remain
The Health Promotion Administration reports that drinking rates among junior and senior high school students have decreased. However, family members and friends remain the main influence on alcohol use. Nearly 70% of junior high students who drink usually consume at least one drink each time. Alcohol can affect brain development and increase the risk of future dependence. Replacing alcohol with non-alcoholic beverages and encouraging healthy recreational activities can help reduce these risks.

AI Bus Station Assistant Makes Bus Information Easier
Taipei and New Taipei have introduced the AI Bus Station Assistant. By scanning a QR code at a bus stop, passengers can check routes, arrival times, fares, and lost-and-found information without downloading an app or registering. The system supports Mandarin, English, and Taiwanese and can recommend suitable routes based on the passenger's location. If the system ever asks for personal information or banking credentials, stop using it immediately.

High Speed Rail Advises Passengers to Prepare Ahead During Air Defense Exercise
During the Urban Resilience Air Defense Exercise, Taiwan High Speed Rail services will continue operating normally, but connecting transportation at stations may be suspended because of traffic control. Mobile network speed restrictions in some areas may affect ticket booking, payment, collection, and mobile payment services. Passengers are advised to complete ticketing in advance, allow extra travel time, and seek assistance from station staff if needed.

Taiwan Railway Expands Student Ticket Discount
Taiwan Railway has revised its student discount program. Eligible students now receive the same discount on the same train and travel date regardless of when they book, eliminating the need to compete for early-bird fares. The program applies to students enrolled in approved colleges and universities traveling on reserved-seat trains for journeys of 50 kilometers or more, making travel more convenient and reducing booking pressure.

Thank you for watching Weekly Focus News.
New Immigrant Global News Network — connecting Taiwan to the world.