The Hong Kong Police Force has initiated the "Gobi and Wind Shield" operation to combat illegal betting activities ahead of the World Cup starting June 11. This operation focuses on curbing illegal off-course betting through strategies including publicity, education, intelligence gathering, and law enforcement. Authorities have highlighted the increasing digitalization of illegal gambling, which now often involves online platforms, social media recruitment, and virtual currency transactions. Under current laws, participating in illegal betting can result in penalties of up to nine months in prison and a HK$500,000 fine, while accepting bets can lead to seven years' imprisonment and a HK$5 million fine. Money laundering related to these activities carries a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison and a HK$5 million fine. The police also shared a cautionary tale of a young man who accrued HK$160,000 in debt due to illegal betting, affecting his career prospects. A clinical psychologist warned that early exposure to gambling significantly increases the risk of developing a gambling disorder, urging the public to avoid illegal betting activities.