Today, Pokemon Go makes its foothold stronger in Asia as it launches in 15 countries altogether and, the good news? Singapore is one of them! Such a relief to all the game fanatics! In nutshell, trainers can now officially download it from their Android or iOS devices. (Yes, it is available in both – Play Store and App Store.)
The game created by The Pokemon Company, developer Niantic Labs and Japanese gaming company Nintendo has taken the world into a frenzy mode. All around people are playing this game and catching pokemons is the latest trend.
The game has encouraged people step out of their houses but it also brought some negative impacts. Criminals are seen exploiting Pokespots to gauge their potential victims, individuals unwillingly trespassing into restricted areas and intruding into privacy of others. Niantic has also updated the game and has added pop-ups in the game warning trainers of the same thing.
And hence after the launch, the Singapore Police Force urges citizens to place their safety above catch ’em all. In a Facebook post it also wrote,
The Pokémon GO craze has seen reports of accidents, injuries and even crimes in countries where it has already been launched. The Police would like to advise Pokémon GO players to enjoy the game safely and urge them to:
· Be aware of your personal safety when out looking for Pokémon. You should play in pairs or as a group to ensure your personal safety.
· Watch where you are walking, be aware of your surroundings and do not walk out into roads without looking.
· Do not play the game and drive any vehicle or ride any personal mobility device at the same time. You cannot do both safely.
· Do not trespass onto restricted areas and private properties. Do not take pictures of restricted areas.
· Be aware that you are potentially sharing data with others; there could be potential criminals who may seek the opportunity to lure victims to their fake “Pokéstops”.
· Educate your children to stranger-danger at “Pokéstops”.
· Never reveal your personal information and watch out for fake apps or cheat tools. Cyber criminals can access your personal data to commit fraud or hack into your phone with viruses and malware.
The Police urge all players to stay safe at all times in your search to “catch ’em all”. Please do not endanger your life or personal safety.
In addition to this Republic of Singapore Air Force issued an advisory asking trainers not to trespass into air bases and camps. National water agency PUB also published a Facebook post sharing similar warning.
