The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued an alert following reports of phishing instant messages linked to Welab Bank Limited and directed the public to Welab Bank’s related press release via the HKMA website. The HKMA reiterated that banks will not send SMS or emails containing embedded hyperlinks that direct customers to bank websites to carry out transactions, and will not request sensitive personal information such as login passwords or One-Time Passwords by phone, email or SMS, including via embedded hyperlinks. Individuals who have provided personal information or conducted financial transactions in response to the messages were advised to contact the bank using the contact information in Welab Bank’s press release and to report the matter to the Hong Kong Police Force’s Crime Wing Information Centre.
Hong Kong Monetary Authority 2025-01-02
Hong Kong Monetary Authority alerts public to phishing instant messages impersonating Welab Bank
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued an alert regarding phishing messages linked to Welab Bank Limited. The HKMA emphasized that banks will not send messages with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Affected individuals are advised to contact Welab Bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.