HKMA Issues Alert on Fake Investment Documents Targeting Investors

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued a warning after receiving reports of fraudulent documents falsely claiming HKMA authorization for an “artificial intelligence investment application.” Scammers, impersonating HKMA staff, circulated these documents to convince members of the public to transfer funds to a purported investment account.

According to HKMA, the documents and associated claims are entirely fabricated. No investment management company has been granted authorization to open or operate any account for the AI investment application mentioned in the scams.

The public is advised to exercise caution when reviewing documents claiming to be issued by HKMA or institutions allegedly regulated by the authority. Verification can be conducted via the official HKMA registers, including the Register of Authorized Institutions and Local Representative Offices, the Register of Stored Value Facility Licensees, and the List of Approved Money Brokers.

Scammers are using professional-looking materials and authoritative language to build credibility. By impersonating officials, they aim to exploit trust and lure unsuspecting investors into transferring significant sums under the pretense of high-yield investment opportunities.

HKMA has reported the matter to the Hong Kong Police Force, emphasizing the seriousness of the fraudulent activity. Authorities urge potential victims or anyone encountering suspicious documents to contact the Police or the Commercial Crime Bureau for investigation.

Investors should remain vigilant in cross-checking communications, and any investment offers involving unverified documents or unknown intermediaries should be treated with skepticism. Timely reporting of suspicious activity can prevent further losses and aid in the apprehension of perpetrators.

The HKMA reiterates that maintaining awareness and using official verification channels are essential to avoid becoming a victim of investment fraud and impersonation scams targeting financial services in Hong Kong.