The Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong has issued a strong warning to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to beware of scam messages promising fake financial and medical assistance.
These fraudulent offers, sent through WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook, claim to provide up to HK$5,000 worth of free groceries, free eye checkups, and even free eyeglasses. But behind these tempting offers lies a dangerous trap.
According to the consulate, scammers are using these tactics to trick victims into giving away personal information. Once obtained, these details could be used to create fake or “stooge” accounts that may later be linked to money laundering and other serious crimes.
In an official advisory posted on Facebook, the consulate reminded Filipinos:
“We urge everyone to be careful and discerning. Scammers may offer supposedly free gifts and rewards to lure victims into giving personal information. This can be misused for money laundering and other crimes. Always stay vigilant and cautious of random messages received online.”
To protect themselves, the consulate encouraged OFWs who receive such suspicious messages to report them immediately to the Anti-Deception Coordination Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force via its Anti-Scam Helpline 18222.
Filipinos may also seek help directly from the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong through the Assistance-To-Nationals Section by emailing atn.hkpcg@gmail.com.
This warning serves as a crucial reminder for OFWs to stay alert online. Scammers prey on trust and hope—but vigilance and awareness remain the strongest defense.
