crime · On.cc

Ten MPay account theft cases cost MOP166,000

about 2 hours ago2 MIN
Ten MPay account theft cases cost MOP166,000

Summary

Macau law enforcement said fraudsters have recently used multiple tactics to steal citizens’ MPay e-payment account information and access rights, then carry out unauthorized high-value transactions . On August 15 alone, officers received 10 related reports involving total losses of about MOP166,000 . Individual losses ranged from MOP4,900 to MOP49,700 . The scams relied on fake Facebook pages, QR codes and phishing SMS messages masquerading as MPay account verification or restriction-removal notices .

Key Points

  • Law enforcement in Macau said scammers recently targeted MPay users by stealing account credentials and control, then making unauthorized large transactions .
  • On August 15, authorities received 10 complaints tied to the scheme, with combined losses totaling about MOP166,000 .
  • Each victim lost between MOP4,900 and MOP49,700, showing the fraud affected users at markedly different loss levels .
  • One tactic used fake Facebook pages claiming supermarket vouchers were available, prompting residents to make contact with scammers .
  • Victims were sent QR codes or phishing links to fake MPay interfaces, where they entered account, login and payment passwords .

Why It Matters

For Hong Kong readers who also rely heavily on mobile payment platforms, the case shows how routine promotions, QR codes and account-warning messages can be turned into tools for credential theft. It also underlines that once payment and login passwords are surrendered on a spoofed interface, fraudsters can quickly seize account control and move substantial sums without authorization .