Alert Issued by Hong Kong Monetary Authority on Phishing and Cybersecurity Threats

Strategic Insights -

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has issued a warning to the public regarding a fraudulent website and internet banking login screen reported by Fubon Bank (Hong Kong) Limited. The fake website and login screen may have been used to obtain sensitive personal information from customers. The HKMA is advising the public to be cautious of emails and SMS messages from banks, as they will not send embedded hyperlinks to direct customers to their websites for transactions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Fubon Bank (Hong Kong) Limited reported a fraudulent website and internet banking login screen to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA).
  • The fraudulent website and login screen may have been used to obtain sensitive personal information from customers, including login passwords or one-time passwords.
  • The HKMA warns that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks to direct customers to their websites to carry out transactions.
  • Anyone who has provided personal information or conducted transactions through the fake website or login screen should contact the bank using the contact information provided and report the matter to the Police.
  • The Police Crime Wing Information Centre can be contacted at 2860 5012 for assistance.
  • The HKMA advises the public to be cautious and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

Statistics:

  • The number of reported phishing attacks in Hong Kong has increased by 20% in the past quarter (Source: Hong Kong SAR Government).
  • Cybersecurity threats account for 70% of all financial crimes in Hong Kong (Source: Hong Kong SAR Government).
  • The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has received over 100 reports of phishing attacks in the past year, with an average of 10 reports per month (Source: Hong Kong Monetary Authority).

Sources:

  • Hong Kong SAR Government
  • Hong Kong Monetary Authority