China’s Military Warns Against Gambling and Online Love Scams
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has warned its troops about online love scams and illegal gambling, reminding them to keep military integrity in the digital age.
A Message to Young Soldiers
In a recent social media post, the PLA Navy addressed soldiers born in the 90s, calling them the “core of the army.”
The message told these young soldiers not to disclose their military identity online and not to be targeted by illegal organizations and criminals. Soldiers were told “never lose sight of your principles and make random friends with netizens,” and to be aware of the risks of online relationships.
The PLA mentioned the confidential and political nature of military service. By sharing personal or professional information online, soldiers could leak sensitive information. The message said discretion is key to national security and collective safety of military personnel.
Gambling as a “Demonic Possesion”
On illegal gambling, the PLA compared it to demonic possession. Soldiers were warned that engaging in gambling can lead to a “spiral of endless debt,” jeopardizing both their personal lives and professional standing.
The warning is particularly significant given that gambling is illegal in China, and the government is actively combating unlawful gambling operations, both online and offline.
Recent incidents have raised concerns about discipline and corruption among Chinese. For example, a massive match-fixing scandal in September saw 128 individuals banned from soccer, 43 of whom were given lifetime bans.
Online Love Scams Targeting Military Personnel
The military is also concerned about online love scams where scammers use personal relationships to extract information or money.
By forming innocent-looking relationships, these scammers will manipulate soldiers to disclose confidential information or engage in illegal activities.
The government’s warning to the military is part of the overall campaign against illegal activities such as gambling, drug trafficking and prostitution. Recent operations in Hong Kong saw 119 people arrested for these illegal activities.
