Faux CE website flagged by gov’t

The government issued a press statement warning about a website that illegally claims to represent or voice the ideas and opinions of Chief Executive (CE) Sam Hou Fai.

According to the statement, the website is in English and includes a photograph of the CE, intended to lead the audience to believe the messages are from the chief of government.

In the same statement, the government emphasized that the CE has only one official website, the Office of the Chief Executive, which is hosted at the web address (https://www.gce.gov.mo).

The statement also notes that the Office of the CE’s official website is available only in Macau’s two official languages (Chinese and Portuguese).

It also noted that Sam launched a personal blog on October 1 and that a dedicated column is hosted exclusively on the same official website.

In response, the government warned the public to remain vigilant and avoid accessing the website to protect personal data and cybersecurity.

It also noted that the Judiciary Police (PJ) has been notified and will follow up.

Additionally, authorities advise the public to verify any website or message issued in the name of Macau SAR government officials or departments by contacting the relevant government departments directly through their official channels.

Note that similar cases have been surfacing in Macau for some time, targeting several individuals and companies, including the Times.

Despite several reports and the Times’ diligence in its work with the PJ and the Public Prosecutions Office, judicial authorities were unable to identify the culprits.