ESSENTIAL SAFETY TIPS for STUDENTS

Cash Crime
Beware of telephone deception, email scams, online romance scams, investment frauds, and online employment/shopping traps. Always conduct a thorough fact-check before disclosing any personal information or making financial commitments.

High-Pressure Groups/Cults
If someone on campus tries to push you into a conversation or activity that makes you uncomfortable, remember that you have the right to say “No” and reject their cult-like and manipulative behaviour.

Corruption on Campus
Stay vigilant as corruption can occur anywhere. It involves individuals abusing their authority for personal gain, often at the expense of others.

Pyramid Schemes
Beware of pyramid schemes that aim to deceive and scam individuals out of their money. Fraudsters often disguise their sales plans as multi-level marketing, even mentioning established companies to make their schemes look legitimate.

Pickpockets
Watch out for pickpockets in busy areas and on public transport, as they often target crowded places, such as markets and MTR. Keep your belongings close and never leave them unattended to avoid theft. We’ve had reports of stolen items on campus, so please don’t leave your valuable personal items unattended in classrooms, libraries, or any other public places.

Petty crimes
While violent crime is rare in Hong Kong, petty crime still occurs. When you’re out at bars or clubbing, try to stay in a group with people you trust and know well. This will help reduce the risk of being targeted by those who may be up to no good and looking to take advantage.

Smoke-Free Campus and Ban on Alternative Smoking Products
HKU is a smoke-free campus. Smoking, including vaping, are prohibited both indoors and outdoors. The government has imposed a ban on alternative smoking products (ASP) such as electronic smoking products, heated tobacco products, and herbal cigarettes in accordance with the laws of Hong Kong. It is an offense to import, promote, manufacture, sell, or possess ASPs for commercial purposes.

LAWS & REGULATIONS IN HK

Immigration Formalities
Non-resident students in Hong Kong must apply for a student visa from the Immigration Department. Studying without a valid student visa is illegal. You’re required to leave Hong Kong within four weeks of completing your studies or when your visa expires, depending on which comes first. To determine your work eligibility, please check the letter issued by the Immigration Department.

Hong Kong Identity (HKID) Card
You must carry your original copyof HKID card or travel document with you all the time in Hong Kong. Failing to produce proof of identity upon demand to a police officer or immigration officer is considered an offense.

Age-Restricted Products and Services
Observe the laws and regulations for age-restricted products, services, or activities in Hong Kong, such as alcohol, tobacco, tattoos, indecent materials, admission to Category III films, and entering premises where bets are accepted.

Jaywalking and Littering
Jaywalking and littering are illegal in Hong Kong. If caught, you may be asked to appear in court and pay a fine of HK$2,000 and HK$3,000 respectively.

Ban on Illegal Drugs (including CBD products)
In Hong Kong, it is important to stay away from illegal drugs including Cannabidiol (CBD) products, due to severe penalties. The Dangerous Drug Ordinance (DDO) imposes fines of up to HK$1,000,000 and imprisonment for 7 years for possession, smoking, inhaling, ingesting, or injecting dangerous drugs.CBD products are classified as dangerous drugs under the DDO and it is illegal to traffic, sell, possess, or consume them. Offenders may be subject to fines and imprisonment.

By understanding and adhering to these laws and regulations, you can help ensure a safe and responsible experience while studying at HKU.