The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued a public alert regarding fraudulent websites and phishing schemes targeting customers of five major Hong Kong banks, the regulator announced on September 1, 2026. The scams involve fake banking websites, fraudulent internet banking login screens, and phishing emails designed to compromise customer credentials and financial information.
- Banks Affected: The Bank of East Asia Limited, Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, Chong Hing Bank Limited, Chiyu Banking Corporation Limited, and Ele Bank Limited
- Scam Types: Fraudulent websites, internet banking login screens, and phishing emails
- Reporting Contact: Hong Kong Police Force Crime Wing Information Centre at 2860 5012
Each affected bank has issued press releases detailing the specific fraudulent activities reported to the HKMA, with hyperlinks available on the authority’s website. The alert emphasizes that legitimate banks will not send SMS or email messages containing hyperlinks directing customers to banking websites for transactions, nor will they request sensitive information such as login passwords or one-time passwords through these channels.
Customers who have already divulged personal information or completed financial transactions through any of the identified scams should immediately contact their respective banks using the contact details in the official press release and file a report with the Hong Kong Police Force. The HKMA’s guidance underscores the importance of verifying the authenticity of communications before engaging with banking platforms or providing account credentials.
The HKMA is Hong Kong’s central banking institution responsible for maintaining monetary and banking stability in the territory.
