Hong Kong Monetary Authority Warns of Phishing Scams Targeting Bank of Communications

Joerg Hiller
Jan 25, 2025 13:59

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority alerts the public to phishing scams involving instant messages linked to the Bank of Communications. Users are advised to avoid sharing personal data via these messages.

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued a critical alert to the public concerning phishing scams that involve instant messages purportedly from the Bank of Communications Co., Ltd. This warning comes after several reports were made to the HKMA about these fraudulent activities, according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority.

Phishing Threats Identified

Phishing scams have increasingly targeted unsuspecting individuals by sending instant messages that appear to originate from legitimate banking institutions. The HKMA stresses that these messages are designed to deceive recipients into providing sensitive personal information such as login credentials or One-Time Passwords (OTPs).

HKMA’s Advisory

The HKMA strongly advises the public that banks, including the Bank of Communications, will not send emails or SMS messages with embedded hyperlinks directing users to carry out transactions on bank websites. Moreover, banks will not request personal information such as passwords or OTPs through phone calls, emails, or SMS.

Actions for Affected Individuals

Individuals who have inadvertently shared personal information or conducted transactions through these fraudulent messages are urged to contact their bank immediately using the official contact details provided in the bank’s press release. Additionally, they should report the incident to the Hong Kong Police Force by reaching out to the Crime Wing Information Centre at 2860 5012.

Broader Implications

This alert highlights the growing sophistication of phishing scams in Hong Kong and underscores the need for heightened cybersecurity awareness among the public. As digital communication becomes more prevalent, individuals must remain vigilant and verify the authenticity of messages purportedly from financial institutions.

The HKMA continues to monitor the situation closely and collaborates with banks and law enforcement agencies to combat these fraudulent activities, ensuring the safety and security of the financial ecosystem.

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