HKMA Warns Public of Bank-Related Scams with Phishing Emails and SMS

Hong Kong Monetary Authority has issued a scam alert warning the public about fraudulent websites, internet banking login screens, and phishing emails that may lead to financial losses. The affected banks include The Bank of East Asia, Limited, Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, and Chong Hing Bank Limited. The HKMA emphasizes that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks to direct customers to their websites for transactions.

Key Takeaways:

• The scam alert involves fraudulent websites, internet banking login screens, and phishing emails reported by several banks in Hong Kong.
• The affected banks include The Bank of East Asia, Limited, Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, and Chong Hing Bank Limited.
• Banks will not engage with customers via SMS or email to ask for sensitive information, such as login passwords or one-time passwords.
• Customers who have provided personal information or conducted financial transactions through these scams should contact the relevant bank and report the incident to the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.
• The Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force has a dedicated hotline for reporting scams (2860 5012).

Statistics:

• The scam alert involves several banks in Hong Kong.
• The affected banks have reported phishing emails and SMS scams.
• Customers are advised to contact their banks and report the incident to the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012 if they have been scammed.

Sources:

• Hong Kong SAR Government
• Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA)