HKMA Alerts Public to Bank Scams and Fraudulent Websites

HKMA Press Releases

Published March 18th, 2026

Detected March 18th, 2026

Summary

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has alerted the public to fraudulent websites and scams targeting customers of several banks. The alert provides details on specific scams and advises the public on how to protect themselves and report incidents.

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What changed

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued a scam alert concerning fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens targeting customers of The Bank of East Asia, Shanghai Commercial Bank, Chong Hing Bank, and Ant Bank. This notice serves to inform the public about these specific fraudulent activities, which have been reported to the HKMA.

Members of the public are reminded that banks will not solicit sensitive information or send SMS/emails with embedded hyperlinks for transactions. Individuals who have fallen victim to these scams should contact the relevant bank immediately and report the incident to the Hong Kong Police Force. This alert aims to increase public awareness and prevent financial losses due to these fraudulent schemes.

What to do next

Review bank's specific press releases for details on reported scams
Advise customers to be vigilant against phishing attempts and fraudulent websites
Report any suspected fraudulent activity to the relevant bank and the Hong Kong Police Force

Source document (simplified)

Scam alert related to banks

Press Releases

18 Mar 2026

Scam alert related to banks

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to the press releases issued by the banks listed below relating to fraudulent websites, internet banking login screens, phishing emails or other scams, which have been reported to the HKMA. Hyperlinks to the press releases are available on the HKMA website.

| Bank | Type of Scam |
| --- | --- |
| The Bank of East Asia, Limited | Fraudulent website and internet banking login screen |
| Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited | Fraudulent website and internet banking login screen |
| Chong Hing Bank Limited | Fraudulent website and internet banking login screen |
| Ant Bank (Hong Kong) Limited | Phishing instant messages |

The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive information, such as login passwords or One-Time Password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).

Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the scams concerned, should contact the relevant bank with the information provided in the corresponding press release, and report the matter to the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

Hong Kong Monetary Authority
18 March 2026

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