Beijing intensifies online and telecom fraud after successes last year

Beijing police pledged to continue the intensified fight against telecom and online fraud, even though they saw a combat success in this regard last year.

The pledge was made by the Beijing Public Security Bureau on Monday when it summarized its work in various fields in 2023. Data released by the bureau showed that it smashed more than 590 groups suspected of telecom fraud and cross-border online gambling last year.

With the collaboration of the Ministry of Public Security, police officers from Beijing's Fangshan district cracked down on a group of 132 people who went to Indonesia to allegedly carry out telecom fraud through nude chats.

Chinese media introduced the fraud process in previous reports, showing that some of the suspects first attracted victims by posting pornographic information online, and then hired female live streaming hosts to pose nude and chat with them.

The live streamers guided the victims to perform indecent acts on camera while secretly recording them and told the victims that the images would be posted unless they agreed to pay the hosts some money. Fearing their behavior would be exposed, most victims sent money to the live streamers.

Last year, Beijing police also detained more than 2,700 people suspected of stealing electronic bicycles, with the capture of over 430 scalpers who used software to steal admission tickets for scenic spots and then resold them at a higher price.

"We'll continue our effort in the fight against crimes that are frequently complained about among public so that residents in the city can have a safer environment," said Hu Yingkun, deputy head of the bureau's criminal investigation department.

He suggested residents not scan quick response codes nor transfer money to online accounts provided by strangers, calling them to upgrade their e-bike locks promptly.

In addition, Beijing police provided more convenient services for residents and enterprises in various areas in 2023.

For instance, all foreigners working in the capital have been allowed to apply for residence and work permits to the bureau, and the processing time is five working days, according to Liu Hongmei, an official from the bureau.

The security review time for major activities, such as concerts and music festivals, was also reduced from seven working days to three working days, she added.