Group 1 - Hong Kong Chinese University (CUHK) admitted nearly 900 non-local students for the 2025/26 academic year, an increase of about 100 from the previous year, while intercepting hundreds of suspected fake degree applications, a significant rise from only 10 cases last year [1] - Other Hong Kong universities, including the University of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, reported similar issues with hundreds of suspected fake degree applications intercepted [2] - From January 2022 to December 2024, 25 individuals in Hong Kong were arrested for using fake degrees to apply for local colleges, with the most severe sentence being 17 weeks of imprisonment [2] Group 2 - CUHK has implemented a new enrollment system to enhance verification processes, requiring original academic documents and direct submission of electronic transcripts from recognized institutions for graduate admissions [3] - The university emphasized that applicants must declare the authenticity of their submitted materials, with consequences for falsification including disqualification and legal repercussions [3] - Former Chief Executive of Hong Kong, Leung Chun-ying, called for strict measures against degree fraud, highlighting its impact on the reputation of universities and the integrity of the education system [3][4] Group 3 - The increase in fraudulent applications is attributed to the growing appeal of Hong Kong's educational institutions, alongside a rise in false advertising and forged documents in the market [4] - Legitimate educational institutions are advising students against fabricating application materials, emphasizing the importance of providing verifiable documents [4] - CUHK plans to continue optimizing its verification mechanisms to uphold academic integrity and international reputation in higher education [4]

Core Viewpoint - Multiple universities in Hong Kong have reported a significant increase in cases of applicants using false academic credentials, prompting enhanced verification measures and stricter penalties for fraudulent applications [1][2][5]. Group 1: University Responses - The Hong Kong University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong have intercepted hundreds of applications suspected of using false academic credentials, with the number of cases at the Chinese University rising dramatically from ten last year to hundreds this year [2]. - The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology has implemented a comprehensive approach to address fraudulent applications, including improved coordination among departments and the introduction of a reporting system for suspicious cases [1][6]. - The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has also reported similar cases and has canceled the applications of approximately ten non-local students suspected of using false credentials [6]. Group 2: Government and Legal Actions - The Hong Kong Education Bureau has adopted a "zero tolerance" policy towards false academic credentials, emphasizing the serious impact on the reputation of local universities and the potential for severe legal consequences, including up to 14 years of imprisonment for those found guilty [5]. - Recent cases have highlighted the legal ramifications of submitting false credentials, with individuals facing imprisonment for obtaining degrees under false pretenses [3]. Group 3: Enhanced Verification Measures - Universities are upgrading their admission verification systems, with the Chinese University implementing a new application and approval system to enhance the verification of PDF documents and images [7]. - The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has introduced a cross-border data verification platform utilizing blockchain and encryption technology to validate academic credentials [7].

Core Viewpoint - Multiple universities in Hong Kong have reported cases of applicants submitting false academic credentials, leading to increased scrutiny and enhanced verification processes in admissions [1][3][4]. Group 1: University Responses - Hong Kong universities, including the University of Hong Kong and Chinese University of Hong Kong, have intercepted hundreds of suspected fraudulent applications, with the number significantly increasing compared to previous years [1][2]. - The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology has implemented new procedures and a reporting system to handle fraudulent applications, emphasizing strict verification of academic documents before enrollment [1][3]. - The Education Bureau of the Hong Kong government has adopted a "zero tolerance" policy towards false credentials, enhancing admission review mechanisms and introducing third-party verification [3][4]. Group 2: Specific Cases and Incidents - A notable case involved a former Miss Universe contestant who was sentenced to imprisonment for providing false academic credentials to gain admission to the University of Hong Kong [3]. - Between January 2022 and December 2024, 25 individuals have been arrested for submitting false academic documents to local colleges, with some receiving prison sentences [2]. Group 3: Technological Enhancements - Universities are increasingly utilizing advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, to improve the verification of academic credentials and combat fraud [6]. - The Chinese University of Hong Kong has upgraded its admission system to enhance the verification of PDF documents and images [6].