TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of Culture said (Jan. 25) that it has identified violations linked to using Culture Points beginning on Jan. 20 through internet monitoring and database analytics.
The Culture Points, distributed to those aged 16-22, are meant to promote youth engagement in the performing arts, exhibitions, and book consumption. However, businesses such as beauty and nail salons have been caught accepting these points illegally.
The Ministry of Culture has detected these infringements and has warned these venues sternly. Referring them for legal action has not been ruled out. Unlawfully claiming benefits involves fraud under Article 339 of the Criminal Code, which carries a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment.
Misappropriation extends beyond businesses. Some young people were selling their Culture Points on social platforms and auction sites, thus exposing their personal data. In 2023, those who sold their youth subsidy found their subsidy claimed by unscrupulous people this year.
In response to the buying and selling of Culture Points, the Ministry of Culture has performed a database comparison and locked emails of accounts with large amounts of Culture Points. It has alerted citizens to reconfirm their identities to reclaim usage rights.