Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has called for a review on crane games in the country after receiving a number of complaints.
Consumer Council Hong Kong has shared a number of case studies that it says shows bad practice from operators. They include claims that a claw which had secured a prize would “pop open” when it reached the top of the machine, unfairly depriving the player of a prize.
Another case study claims that a player received a prize different to what was advertised, with the Consumer Council saying that it had tried to contact the operator but failed and suggested pursuing legal action.
It reported that 42 complaints were filed against crane operators in the first 11 months of 2024, an increase from 16 in 2023 and seven in 2022.
Crane operators in Hong Kong do not need a licence to operate.
