Authorities warn of surge in online scams using images of public figures

A screenshot of a complaint against trademark infringement filed yesterday by Macau Daily Times with Meta/Facebook

The Monetary Authority of Macao (AMCM) and the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT) have issued a stern warning to the public regarding a surge in fake messages circulating online, particularly those involving “celebrities” and notable public figures.

The warning comes after a series of incidents in which scammers used the names and images of well-known figures and reputable media brands to deceive the public on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook.

Yesterday, AMCM and DSEDT identified a wave of fake messages online, including fabricated stories about alleged cooperation plans between “celebrities” and their services. The agencies clarified that these claims are entirely false and urged the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent information to avoid falling victim to scams and financial losses.

Both authorities cautioned the public that if any website requests personal information, bank card or account details, or passwords, individuals should promptly contact the Judiciary Police’s fraud prevention hotline.

The Macau Daily Times, along with other outlets such as CCTV, Macao Daily News, and Macao News, has been repeatedly targeted by this series of false content scams.

In the latest incidents, fake interviews and articles were attributed to prominent figures including Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai; Lawrence Ho, CEO of Melco Resorts; Angela Leong, co-chairman and executive director of SJM Holdings; Pansy Ho, chairperson of MGM China Holdings; and Francis Lui, chairman and executive director of Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG).

A handful of these fake news posts appear to promote a cryptocurrency platform.

The Times hereby states that all those posts are false, and the mentioned “interviews” were never conducted by the newspaper.

This is not the first time the Times has been targeted. In late June, a similar scam used the newspaper’s brand to promote a fake interview with Lawrence Ho, and previously, a Taiwanese celebrity.

Importantly, the integrity of the Times’ website and official accounts remains uncompromised. The Times reminds readers to rely solely on its official website for news and updates, and to avoid clicking on suspicious links.

The Times condemns the falsification and dissemination of such content and reserves the right to pursue legal action against those responsible for reputational damages.

The Times yesterday filed another complaint with Meta against trademark infringement.