Hong Kong man loses HK$2.8 million in scam
SCMP · 1 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
A Hong Kong man in his 60s lost more than HK$2.8 million in an online investment scam after fraudsters claimed to be employees of CLP Power and State Grid Corporation of China. The victim was persuaded to invest in a supposed “recyclable waste project” that was described through messages but not backed by any official website. Police said the man first met the scammer on Facebook, later received follow-up messages on WhatsApp, and eventually realised he had been cheated when more payments were demanded before any “dividends” could be released. The force also said it recorded 50 investment scam cases in the past week, involving total losses of more than HK$30 million.
Key Points
- Police said the victim became acquainted with the first scammer on Facebook, where the fraudster claimed to work for CLP Power.
- The scammer said CLP Power was collaborating with State Grid Corporation of China on a “recyclable waste project” with high returns.
- The man first transferred HK$1.5 million to different bank accounts under instructions from the fraudster promoting the supposed investment.
- After the victim expressed doubts, the scammer showed a handwritten statement and a forged Hong Kong identity card, prompting another HK$1 million transfer.
- A second fraudster later contacted him on WhatsApp with fake staff credentials and a forged HK$9 million cheque, then demanded more money.
Why It Matters
The case shows how scammers are exploiting the names of major companies and using forged documents across social media and messaging platforms to build credibility. For Hong Kong residents, the police warning is practical and immediate: verify identities through official channels and avoid sending money to unknown personal bank accounts, especially when promised high returns with no risk.