Hong Kong man loses HK$8 million in dating scam
HK01 · 4 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
A 56-year-old single man in Hong Kong reported losing more than HK$8 million after meeting someone on a dating app who claimed to be a dancer. The pair developed an online romantic relationship after an unsolicited message, according to police and local media reports. The victim then made repeated transfers after being told the money was needed for competition popularity votes, membership fees, asset review charges and administrative costs. He only realised he had been scammed after the other party cut off contact, and he then sought police help.
Key Points
- Police said the 56-year-old victim, described as a single man, first received an unsolicited message on a dating application from a person claiming to be a dancer.
- After the two developed feelings and became online lovers, the supposed dancer began asking for money under multiple pretexts tied to fees and payments.
- The excuses included popularity voting fees for a dance competition, membership fees, asset examination charges and administrative fees, according to the reports.
- Believing the requests, the man transferred money many times and ultimately lost more than HK$8 million before the scammer disappeared.
- Police warned that unsolicited messages should raise suspicion and said residents can consult the Scameter or Scameter app if they have doubts.
Why It Matters
The case shows how romance scams can combine emotional manipulation with a series of seemingly specific payment demands, making losses escalate over time. For Hong Kong readers, the police advice is practical: pause before transferring money, verify identities independently and discuss suspicious requests with family or trusted friends.