Authorities in China have warned young Navy officers about the risks of engaging in online gambling and dating scams, saying anyone falling afoul of bad actors can undermine the military and lead to security risks.

targeted people born in 1990 and later

The People’s Liberation Army Navy posted on social media about how criminals can take advantage of anyone exposing their identity online. It targeted people born in 1990 and later, as they are transitioning into the bulk of the navy’s personnel.

The post recommends being very careful when making friends online and to “never lose sight” of their principles. It also reminded people that it is illegal to gamble online in China and compared gambling addiction to being “possessed by a demon” and leading people to rack up significant debts.