The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued a warning to the public regarding a fraudulent social media account and phishing instant messages linked to Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited. According to the HKMA, the scam has been reported and is currently under investigation.

Details of the Fraudulent Activities

The HKMA highlighted that the fraudulent activities involve a fake social media account and phishing messages designed to deceive the bank’s customers into divulging sensitive personal information. The phishing messages often contain embedded hyperlinks directing recipients to counterfeit websites that mimic the bank’s official site.

Public Safety Advisory

In its advisory, the HKMA emphasized that legitimate banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks asking customers to visit their websites for transactions. Additionally, banks will never request sensitive information such as login passwords or One-Time Passwords via phone, email, or SMS.

The HKMA urges anyone who may have provided personal information or conducted financial transactions in response to the fraudulent messages to contact Shanghai Commercial Bank immediately. Affected individuals are also advised to report the incident to the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

Broader Implications

This alert comes amid a rising trend of cyber fraud targeting financial institutions. Similar incidents have been reported globally, prompting financial regulators to issue public warnings and enhance security measures. The HKMA’s proactive stance highlights the importance of vigilance and public awareness in combating cybercrime.

For more information, visit the official press release on the HKMA website.

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