Hong Kong Monetary Authority Issues Scam Alert on Fake Bank Websites and Phishing Emails

Strategic Insights -

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has issued a scam alert warning members of the public about fake websites, internet banking login screens, and phishing emails from several banks in Hong Kong. The affected banks include The Bank of East Asia, Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, Chong Hing Bank Limited, and Ant Bank (Hong Kong) Limited. These banks have reported fraudulent websites and phishing emails to the HKMA.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued a scam alert related to banks in Hong Kong.
  • The Bank of East Asia, Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, Chong Hing Bank Limited, and Ant Bank (Hong Kong) Limited have reported fraudulent websites, internet banking login screens, and phishing instant messages.
  • The affected banks have issued press releases warning the public about these scams and urging them to report any suspicious activity.
  • Banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks to direct customers to their websites to carry out transactions.
  • Customers are advised to contact their banks directly with any information about the scams and to report the matter to the Hong Kong Police Force.

Statistics:

  • The Bank of East Asia has reported 5 fraudulent websites.
  • The number of phishing emails from Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited is not specified in the original text.
  • The scams have been reported to the HKMA by four banks in Hong Kong.
  • The public is warned to be vigilant about fake bank websites and phishing emails, which can compromise sensitive information.

Sources:

  • Hong Kong SAR Government, August 4 news release
  • Hong Kong Monetary Authority, August 4 press release
  • (https://www.hkma.gov.hk/eng/smart-consumers/beware-of-fraudsters/#fraudulent-bank-websites-phishing-emails-and-similar-scams)
  • (https://www.gov.hk/gia/general/202508/04/P2025080400654.htm)