Hong Kong Monetary Authority Issues Scam Alert for Banks

Strategic Insights -

Banks in Hong Kong have been reported to have issued warnings about fraudulent websites, internet banking login screens, phishing emails, and other scams. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued a scam alert warning the public about such activities. The affected banks are The Bank of East Asia, Limited, Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, and Chong Hing Bank Limited.

Key Takeaways:

  • The HKMA has alerted the public to press releases issued by banks regarding fraudulent activities, available on the HKMA website.
  • Banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks to direct customers to their websites to carry out transactions.
  • Customers should not provide sensitive information, such as login passwords or one-time passwords, via phone, email, or SMS, including embedded hyperlinks.
  • Anyone who has provided personal information or conducted transactions through or in response to the scams should contact the relevant bank and report the matter to the Hong Kong Police Force.
  • The affected banks are The Bank of East Asia, Limited, Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, and Chong Hing Bank Limited.
  • The HKMA reminds the public to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent such scams.

Statistics:

  • The number of banks affected: 3
  • The number of scams reported: multiple
  • The time period of the scams: not specified
  • The number of customers potentially affected: not specified

Sources:

  • Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA)
  • Hong Kong SAR Government
  • The Bank of East Asia, Limited
  • Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited
  • Chong Hing Bank Limited