In order to enhance staff’s awareness in preventing cybercrimes, the University held a workshop on “Preventing Computer Crime and Cyberbullying” on March 15.  Principal Criminal Investigators from Judiciary Police – Mr. Hong Kam Fat, Ms. Pang Sin Kei and Mr. Leong Man Hong were invited as speakers. They introduced the common types of computer crimes and cyberbullying patterns in Macau, shared actual fraud cases and how CityU can cooperate with the Judiciary Police to educate and prevent our staff members and students from cybercrime.

During the workshop, Mr. Hong shared a variety of common scamming methods. Some may use technological means to pretend to be government officials to trick victims into transferring money, while others may contact victims through video conferencing software with screen sharing function to spy on online bank account numbers, passwords and verifications details, thereby transferring money from the victim’s account. Ms. Pang pointed out that in recent years, scammers have also established relationship with victims through online dating platforms, and then guide them to provide financial assistance or conduct investment/gambling in order to defraud money.

In addition to the case sharing, Mr. Hong also invited our staff to answer simulated fraudulent calls to test participants’ reaction. All participants paid close attention and at the end of the workshop, a lot of questions were raise especially on the prevention of Internet and telephone fraud. Some colleagues also shared their own experience to warn others to be careful of being deceived. Staff members all said that the content of the workshop was useful, which helped them deepen their understanding of telephone and computer crimes.

The City University of Macau always upholds the social responsibility and philosophy of “rooting in Macau and serving the Greater Bay Area”. We pay close attention to the daily work training and development of staff, and also attach great importance in strengthening the vigilance of our staff on preventing cybercrime and protecting sensitive information. We will continue this series of activities and workshops to strengthen knowledge of staff members in this regard to create a better and safer campus environment.