The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued an alert to the public following reports of phishing instant messages linked to Bank of Communications Co., Ltd., and pointed readers to the bank’s press release via the HKMA website. The HKMA reiterated that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks directing customers to bank websites to conduct transactions, and will not request sensitive personal information such as login passwords or one-time passwords by phone, email or SMS. Anyone who has provided personal information or conducted financial transactions in response to the messages was advised to contact the bank using the details in the bank’s press release and report the matter to the Hong Kong Police Force.
Hong Kong Monetary Authority 2025-01-24
Hong Kong Monetary Authority warns public about phishing instant messages impersonating Bank of Communications
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued an alert regarding phishing instant messages linked to Bank of Communications Co., Ltd. The HKMA emphasized that banks will not send messages with hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Affected individuals are advised to contact the bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.