WhatsApp hackers can access your account without you knowing and use it to send payment requests to people on your contact list. Those who receive the message might believe it came from you and be likely to follow the instructions.
This tactic has spread to IG and other social networking platforms with in-app chats. So, stay cautious on all forms of messaging and social networking platforms to avoid scams.
After that, the fraudsters send messages to your contacts asking for money for various reasons. As the messages are from a trusted account (yours!), recipients often comply and send the fraudsters money.
Enable the two-factor authentication (2FA) feature on WhatsApp, IG and other messaging apps. This enhances the security of your accounts as two steps are required to log in.
Never share your PIN or one-time password with others.
Never share your sensitive personal information, including digital banking credentials, PINs or one-time passwords with others. Your money may be at risk if fraudsters get hold of the information.
Stay vigilant when you're asked for sensitive information, even if you're chatting with someone you know. There's always a chance their account or device has been hijacked.
Don't click on any links or download attachments that look suspicious – even if the message appears to be from someone you know. Always check if the source is trustworthy before taking any action.
Make sure you know about the apps you use. For example, WhatsApp states that it'll never ask you to:
Meanwhile, IG's security checkup feature helps you find out whether your account is secure.
Always check for app updates on your mobile device. Keeping your apps updated can fix bugs and improve security.
If you receive a message from family or friends asking for any form of financial assistance, always call them to confirm before doing anything. If the bank account holder name doesn't look right, be extra careful before sending any money.
Use the Hong Kong Police Force's Scameter or Scameter+ app to verify suspicious numbers, emails, bank accounts and so on.
Staying vigilant at all times can protect you and help fight fraud. If in doubt, call the police's Anti-Deception Coordination Centre (ADCC) hotline at 18222.
HSBC is committed to protecting your financial security. Think you might have come across a WhatsApp scam or Instagram scam? Please contact us at:
HSBC Global Private Banking customers: (852) 2233 3033
HSBC Premier Elite customers: (852) 2233 3033
HSBC Premier customers: (852) 2233 3322
Other personal banking customers: (852) 2233 3000
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