State Police issued a community bulletin warning residents of the dangers of using the new Pokemon Go, an interactive virtual game for mobile devices.
According to the police release, Nintendo Company Limited released Pokemon Go on July 6, gaining popularity with an estimated 5 percent of Android users downloading it within the first few days.
“The interactive virtual game for mobile devices uses the global positioning system (GPS) and camera to allow players to see and virtually capture Pokemon creatures while walking around their communities,” according to the release. “The free mobile application (app) identifies the player’s location and encourages the player to physically walk around the real world, causing some players to reportedly injure themselves from tripping and falling, unknowingly walking into roadways without checking traffic, and becoming distracted while using the app while driving a motor vehicle.”
State Police advised that citizens should be cognizant of players using the app on their mobile devises.
“Distracted game users might not be aware of their surroundings or use caution when entering into isolated areas. Criminals might also seek the opportunity to target players by luring them or waiting for their arrival at Pokestops and gyms,” reports State Police.
According to police, the game allows players to use a customizable avatar to move along a brightly colorized version of Google Maps.
“Pokemon characters are hidden throughout the map and players are notified when a Pokemon is nearby. The player must throw a virtual ball to capture the creature in an effort to achieve a higher score within the game. The mobile device’s camera can also be activated to show the cartoon Pokemon creature within a real life setting. Inside the game, players must physically search out iconic places called “Pokestops” and “Gyms” to further advance. Pokestops are places where players can acquire supplies, training for the Pokemon characters, and obtain healing powers after battling other characters. Gyms are places where the Pokemon can battle other players and increase their level within the game,” according to the release.
State Police report that Pokestops and gyms are throughout communities at places such as historical landmarks, memorials, churches, schools, restaurants, and retail stores.
“In some cases, police stations, public buildings, and houses located on private property have been designated as Pokestops and gyms. Law enforcement personnel have responded to an increase in trespassing incidents and reports of suspicious individuals since the game’s release,” reports State Police.
State Police also reported that the game allows players to set a “lure module,” intended to attract more Pokemon to a specific location for a short period of time.
“When a lure module is active, other Pokemon Go players can be drawn to the physical location to capture additional Pokemon characters. On July 9, four male suspects in St. Louis, Missouri activated a lure module within the game and drew players to a secluded parking lot, where they allegedly robbed 11 players at gunpoint,” reports State Police. “Using the geo-location feature, criminals are able to use the luring mechanisms of the app to seclude unknowing victims and anticipate the arrival of gamers.”
The State Police Community Awareness Bulletin is provided to the public as part of an increased effort by the Pennsylvania State Police to share important information concerning the safety and security of citizens. Bulletins will be disseminated as necessary, and will contain information regarding emerging crime trends and safety issues that could impact communities, according to State Police.
