The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued a public alert regarding coordinated phishing and fraud schemes targeting customers of five major Hong Kong banks. The advisory, issued on September 17, 2026, warns of fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens designed to deceive customers into compromising their credentials and financial information.
- Affected Banks: The Bank of East Asia Limited, Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, Chong Hing Bank Limited, Chiyu Banking Corporation Limited, and OCBC Bank (Hong Kong) Limited
- Scam Method: Fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens
- Alert Date: September 17, 2026
- Police Hotline: 2860 5012
The HKMA emphasized that legitimate banks will never request sensitive information through unsolicited communications. The regulator cautioned the public that financial institutions do not send SMS messages or emails containing embedded hyperlinks directing customers to banking websites for transactions, nor do they request login passwords or One-Time Passwords via phone, email, or text message.
Customers who believe they may have fallen victim to these scams are urged to contact their respective banks immediately using contact details from official press releases published on the HKMA website. Those who have disclosed personal information or conducted unauthorized transactions should also report the incident to the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.
The alert underscores ongoing cybersecurity threats facing the Hong Kong financial sector and reinforces the importance of customer vigilance when engaging with digital banking services. The HKMA continues to work with member institutions to combat fraudulent activity and protect depositors from financial crime.
