HKMA Warns Public About Scams Involving Fraudulent Bank Websites and Phishing Emails

Scam alert related to banks

The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to the press releases issued by the banks listed below relating to fraudulent websites, internet banking login screens, phishing emails or other scams, which have been reported to the HKMA. Hyperlinks to the press releases are available on the HKMA website.

Bank

Type of scam

The Bank of East Asia, Limited

Fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens

Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited

Fraudulent website and internet banking login screen

Chong Hing Bank Limited

Fraudulent website and internet banking login screen

Chiyu Banking Corporation Limited

Fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens

The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited

Fraudulent website and internet banking login screen

DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited

Fraudulent website

The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks' websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).

Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the scams concerned, should contact the relevant bank with the information provided in the corresponding press release, and report the matter to the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

HKMA, Photo source: reference image

Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected illegally imported live birds

Hong Kong Customs today (February 7) detected a suspected case of illegal importing of live bird at the Lo Wu Control Point. 112 live birds with an estimated market value of about $15,000 were seized.

Customs officers today intercepted an incoming 26-year-old female passenger at the arrival hall of the said control point. Upon examination, 112 live birds contained in bird cages were seized from the trolley she carried, and she was subsequently arrested.

The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation.

Under the Public Health (Animals and Birds) Regulations, it is an offence to import any bird unless it is accompanied by a valid health certificate. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $25,000.

Members of the public may report any suspected activities of illegal import of live birds to Customs' 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected illegally imported live birds Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases