Hong Kong police have arrested eight individuals, four men and four women aged between 23 and 57, in connection with a compensated-dating scam that defrauded victims of HK$6.2 million (approximately US$790,000). The victims, including teachers and healthcare workers, were misled into paying so-called "legal fees" to formalize contracts to become “sugar babies.”
The police investigation, conducted by the cybersecurity and technology crime bureau, uncovered 80 cases between February and July 2026 where scammers used compensated dating as a pretext to lure victims.
Chief Inspector Chan Lai-yu of the technology crime division explained that the scammers advertised compensated dating arrangements on social media, offering victims monthly payments between HK$50,000 and HK$70,000 to become “sugar babies.” Victims were required to sign non-disclosure agreements and were added to chat groups where scammers impersonated lawyers and wealthy clients, using forged name cards to build trust.
During contract discussions, victims were asked to transfer funds labeled as legal fees, High Court fees, and termination fees to various accounts, with promises of refunds after contract completion.
The arrested suspects face charges including conspiracy to defraud, money laundering, and possession of dangerous drugs.
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