HKMA warns public against unauthorized banking website
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has warned the public about 'International Private Banking Hong Kong', stating it is not authorized to conduct banking business or take deposits in Hong Kong. The entity also lacks approval for a representative office.
Unauthorized banking operations
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued an alert regarding 'International Private Banking Hong Kong', an entity operating via a website.
The HKMA explicitly states that this entity is not authorized under the Banking Ordinance to carry on banking business or accept deposits in Hong Kong.
Furthermore, it does not possess the Monetary Authority's approval to establish a local representative office within the territory, as required by the Ordinance.
Verify before transacting
Given the global nature of the Internet, the HKMA reminds members of the public to always verify the authorization status of any organization offering bank accounts or soliciting deposits in Hong Kong.
This verification should occur prior to transferring any funds or providing any personal information to such organizations.
A list of authorized institutions is available on the HKMA's official website (www.hkma.gov.hk), and public enquiries can be directed to publicenquiry@hkma.gov.hk for status checks.