The cyber security unit of the Hong Kong Police Force have launched CyberDefender, a new metaverse platform designed to educate the public of the potential dangers associated with Web3 and the metaverse.
According to a May 27 statement, the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau (CSTCB) of the Hong Kong Police Force unveiled a new metaverse platform, CyberDefender, in an effort to prepare its citizens for the “challenges ahead in the digital age” with a focus on technology crime prevention.
“Exploring the Metaverse” event in the CyberDefender metaverse on May 27. Source: Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
On the same day that it launched, an event was held on the platform, “Exploring the Metaverse,” spanning across three virtual venues, with the aim of discussing crime prevention strategies within the metaverse.
During the event, chief inspector of CSTCB, Mr Ip Cheuk-yu emphasized the importance of exercising caution in the metaverse, urging attendees to apply the same level of vigilance they practise while using the internet. He stated:
“All crimes in the cyberspace could also happen in the metaverse, such as investment frauds, unauthorized access to systems, theft and sexual offenses.”
He further explained that decentralization could potentially raise the risk of asset theft.
“The decentralized nature of virtual assets in Web3 may also increase the likelihood of cyber criminals targeting end point devices, virtual asset wallets and smart contracts” he said.
“Exploring the Metaverse” event in the CyberDefender metaverse on May 27. Source: Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
The Hong Kong Police Force plans to ramp up its technology crime educational initiatives, especially for “the younger generation,” after a significant rise in virtual asset crime was reported in Hong Kong during Q1 2023.
It was revealed that 663 cases involving virtual assets was reported during Q1 2023, representing a total loss of $570 million – a 75% increase compared to Q1…
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