Beware of Phishing SMS Messages Purportedly from Transport Department (HKeToll)
2023-09-20
Defrauding Tricks
Recently, members of the public have received phishing SMS messages purporting to be from the Transport Department (HKeToll) which claims that the recipient’s self-payment of toll failed. Members of the public are lured into clicking on a fraudulent link directing them to a fraudulent HKeToll website which seeks to deceive them into providing their phone numbers and credit card information for the purpose of fraud.
The Transport Department said that the HKeToll would not send SMS messages or emails to vehicle owners with hyperlinks which directed them to websites to carry out transactions. If a vehicle owner wishes to pay an outstanding toll online, they must log on to the HKeToll website (hketoll.gov.hk) or mobile app. For enquiries about the HKeToll, please call the Customer Service Hotline on 3853 7333.
Our Advice
Do not connect to any websites or download any attachments by clicking on hyperlinks embedded in suspicious SMS messages, emails or websites;
Do not input your personal information, credit card details, 3-digit security code (CVC/CVV) and one-time password into unknown websites or apps;
Enter the suspicious URL on “Scameter” or “Scameter+”, the mobile app of “Scameter”, for security check in addition to seeking verification from official organisations;
Remind your relatives and friends to stay vigilant against deception;
If in doubt, please call the “Anti-Scam Helpline 18222” for enquiries.
