Internet Fraud Hong Kong: What to Do If You Become a Victim

Authors: Kelly Leung, Associate Solicitor

Internet fraud continues to be on the rise and is showing no signs of slowing down. This alarming trend makes it essential to remain vigilant. Unknown calls, phishing emails, and suspicious text messages are red flags that require our immediate attention. Recognising these unusual activities, especially those requesting personal information, is crucial for identifying potential scams.

If You Have Been Scammed, Act Quickly

If you have been scammed, this article will explain the steps to take and how lawyers can assist

Being proactive, staying informed, and acting fast are some of your best defences!

1) Identifying Fraudulent Activities

Often, the first sign of being scammed is noticing unauthorised transactions on your credit card or bank account. Scammers may also impersonate authorised entities to trick you into transferring money or divulging personal information.

2) Report the Fraud to the Police and your Bank

Once you realise that you have been scammed, it is critical to act immediately. Inform your bank and file a police report as soon as possible. Time is of the essence. The sooner the fraud is reported, the better the chances of recovery.

Skilled scammers often transfer stolen funds quickly, complicating recovery efforts and making it more difficult to trace the money.

By reporting promptly, the police can commence investigations to identify the fraudster and potentially arrest them. If evidence such as impersonation or suspicious transactions is clear, the police may work with banks to freeze both the victim’s account and the fraudster’s account to prevent further loss.

3) Consider Taking Legal Action

After notifying your bank and filing a police report, consult a lawyer in Hong Kong about your next steps. The police may ask whether you intend to pursue civil action. You should consider:

• How much money was defrauded

• Where the fraudster’s bank account is located

If a significant amount was lost and the fraudster’s account is located in Hong Kong, engaging local lawyers may be appropriate to discuss recovery options.

4) Explore Civil Litigation

A lawyer in Hong Kong may coordinate closely with the police. Before commencing litigation, the key consideration is whether enough funds remain frozen in the fraudster’s account to make recovery viable.

For example, if HK$1 million was defrauded but only HK$10,000 remains frozen, pursuing legal action may not be commercially sensible. The objective is to alleviate financial loss, not increase it through unnecessary legal costs.

Where multiple victims have filed reports against the same fraudster, recovery may become more complex. Priority issues may arise where multiple claims are made against frozen funds.

5) Gather Supporting Documents for Civil Litigation

If proceedings are pursued, lawyers will prepare court documents and rely heavily on evidence provided by the victim. Important documents include:

• Proof of payment or transaction records

• Screenshots of communications with fraudsters

• Bank account details used for transfers

A default judgment may be obtained where fraudsters fail to respond, requiring repayment of the defrauded sum with interest. Lawyers may then pursue enforcement, including garnishee proceedings, to recover funds from frozen accounts.

6) Your Best Defences Against Internet Fraud

Always stay alert to evolving scam tactics. Being proactive, staying informed, and acting fast are among your strongest defences. By reporting fraud promptly and seeking legal advice early, victims can navigate the aftermath of a scam more effectively.

How Ravenscroft & Schmierer Can Help?

Internet fraud cases require speed, evidence, and strategic legal action. Ravenscroft & Schmierer advises individuals and businesses affected by internet fraud in Hong Kong, helping them work with banks and police, assess recovery options, and pursue civil claims where appropriate.

If you have been affected by a scam, our team can help you take decisive steps toward recovery.

FAQ: Internet Fraud Hong Kong

What should I do if I fall victim to internet fraud in Hong Kong?

Notify your bank immediately and file a police report as soon as possible.

Can stolen funds be recovered after internet fraud?

Recovery depends on how quickly the fraud is reported and whether funds remain frozen in the fraudster’s account.

Should I consider legal action against a fraudster?

Legal action may be appropriate where significant funds are involved and recovery is commercially viable.

Do I need a Hong Kong lawyer for internet fraud cases?

Yes. A local lawyer can advise on civil proceedings, asset recovery, and coordination with police and banks.

What evidence is needed for an internet fraud claim?

Transaction records, communications with the fraudster, and bank details are essential.

How can Ravenscroft & Schmierer help with internet fraud cases?

Ravenscroft & Schmierer advises victims of internet fraud in Hong Kong on police reporting, civil litigation, asset recovery, and enforcement proceedings.

Does Ravenscroft & Schmierer act urgently in fraud matters?

Yes. We understand that timing is critical and act quickly to assess recovery options.

Can Ravenscroft & Schmierer pursue frozen funds on my behalf?

Yes. We assist with garnishee proceedings and enforcement following court judgments.

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Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this article it is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice of any kind. You should seek your own personal legal advice before taking legal action. We accept no liability whatsoever for loss arising out of the use or misuse of this article.

For specific advice about your situation, please contact:

Kelly Leung 

Associate Solicitor

+852 2388 3899

kleung@rs-lawyers.com.hk