Stay Alert: Phishing SMSs Purportedly from UnionPay International

2024-12-18

Defrauding Tricks

Recently, scammers impersonating staff of UnionPay International sent phishing SMSs in the name of “UnionPay” to members of the public, falsely claiming that autopay from their UnionPay accounts has been arranged for paying insurance premiums, and luring them to call 8172 3675, a fraudulent hotline number attached. Claiming as employees of insurance companies, scammers on the phone offered to help cancel payments and directed members of the public to a fraudulent UnionPay website, with the aim of obtaining their personal and bank account information, even their money.

Our Advice

• Clarification issued by UnionPay International: https://www.unionpayintl.com/hk/

• Even if strangers who send you messages are able to tell your personal information, it does not necessarily mean that they are genuine staff. Scammers can obtain the personal information of the public by unlawful means;

• Do not believe the scammers’ identities simply by the phone numbers they provide. You are advised to verify their identities by making enquiries to relevant organisations;

• Do not log on to any suspicious websites or download any attachments by hastily clicking on hyperlinks embedded in emails, SMSs or web pages;

• You may call UnionPay International’s service hotline at 800 967 222 (Hong Kong) or 0800 801 (Macao) for enquiries if needed;

• You may enter suspicious information on “Scameter” of CyberDefender or “Scameter+”, the mobile app of “Scameter”, for security check in addition to seeking verification from relevant organisations;

• If in doubt, please call the “Anti-Scam Helpline 18222” for assistance.