The chief inspector of the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau (CSTCB) cautioned that the metaverse is just as vulnerable as the regular internet, stating that all types of cybercrimes can occur within the metaverse as well.
Hong Kong Police Force’s Cyber Security Unit introduces Cyber Defender, a new metaverse platform aimed at raising public awareness about the potential risks associated with Web3 and the metaverse.
In a statement on May 27, the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau (CSTCB) of the Hong Kong Police Force introduced Cyber Defender, a new metaverse platform. The platform aims to help citizens prepare for the upcoming challenges in the digital age, with a specific focus on preventing technology-related crimes.
“Exploring the Metaverse” event in the Cyber Defender metaverse on May 27. Source: Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
On the day of its launch, an online event called “Exploring the Metaverse” took place. The event spanned across three virtual venues and focused on discussing strategies to prevent crimes within the metaverse.
During the event, Mr. Ip Cheuk-yu, the chief inspector of the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau (CSTCB), highlighted the significance of being cautious in the metaverse. He urged attendees to maintain the same level of vigilance they exercise when using the internet.
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Mr. Ip Cheuk-yu, the chief inspector of the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau (CSTCB), explained that similar types of crimes found in cyberspace can also occur within the metaverse. These crimes include investment frauds, unauthorized system access, theft, and sexual offenses.
Mr. Ip Cheuk-yu further clarified that in the metaverse, all types of crimes observed in cyberspace, such as investment frauds, unauthorized system access, theft, and sexual offenses, can occur. He also noted that the decentralized nature of the metaverse could potentially increase the risk of asset theft.
Mr. Ip Cheuk-yu pointed out that the decentralized nature of virtual assets in Web3 could make end point devices, virtual asset wallets, and smart contracts more susceptible to cybercriminals targeting them.
“Exploring the Metaverse” event in the Cyber Defender metaverse on May 27. Source: Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
The educational initiatives of Cyber Defender primarily target the younger generation. The statement mentions that the police will conduct various public educational programs on the “Cyber Defender Metaverse” platform. These initiatives aim to raise awareness among teenagers about the latest advancements in information technology, potential risks, and the significance of preventing technology-related crimes.
According to the statement, the Hong Kong Police Force received 663 reports related to virtual assets in the first quarter of 2023. These reports involved a total loss of $570 million, marking a 75% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
On May 22, it was reported that Nanjing, the capital city of China’s Jiangsu province, introduced the China Metaverse Technology and Application Innovation Platform. The platform aims to promote research and development related to the metaverse throughout the country.
The Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology (NUIST) is leading the innovation platform.
Important: This article is intended solely for informational purposes. It should not be considered or relied upon as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice.
