Beware of Phone Scammers Impersonating Staff of Department of Health

2021-09-16

Recently, the Police have received public enquires about incoming calls prefixed with “+852” purporting to be made by staff of Hong Kong’s Department of Health (DH). Callers claim that the Covid-19 vaccine taken by the victims has lost its effectiveness. The calls are then forwarded to another fraudster impersonating Mainland law enforcement officer, who attempts to gather victims’ personal information, bank account details and passwords.

• To help detect telephone deception, the Office of the Communications Authority stipulates that telephone operators are required to insert a “+” sign in the calling number display of mobile phones as a prefix for all incoming calls originating from outside Hong Kong. If you receive unknown calls with the prefix “+852” which appears to be from a local number, you should be alert to the possible telephone deception.
• DH will provide relevant information to verify the identity of both parties if they need to contact you. DH will not ask you for any sensitive personal information such as bank account details and PIN codes;
• If callers claim themselves as staff of DH and ask for your personal information and bank account details under various pretexts, call the Centre for Health Protection hotline (2125 1111 / 2125 1122) for verification;
• Do not disclose to strangers your personal information, bank account details, online banking accounts and passwords, etc.;
• Remind your relatives and friends to stay alert against deception;
• If in doubt, please call the “Anti-Scam Helpline 18222” for advice.