During an interview with Hong Kong Radio, the Assistant Chief Executive of the Monetary Authority, Au Yook-lun, stated that many victims of scams have been tricked into providing their online banking accounts and passwords, leading to unauthorized transfers. Some even mistakenly trust the scammers and follow their instructions to transfer their deposits. Therefore, after consulting with the Banks industry, the authorities will launch the 'Smart Security Deposit' measure next year.

Au Yook-lun added that the 'Smart Security Deposit' measure allows retail banking personal customers to specify an amount of deposits under a protected mechanism. Once the protection is set, the funds cannot be transferred out unless a request is made to the bank to cancel the protection. He also mentioned that when account holders intend to cancel the protection, they must meet with a bank employee for verification, hoping that face-to-face contact will help customers prevent scams.

According to the Monetary Authority's requirements, whether citizens activate or cancel the 'Smart Security Deposit', banks must complete the arrangements within three days. Due to the measures involving significant system changes in Banks, 'Smart Security Deposit' will be gradually launched next year, with full implementation by the end of next year at the latest. Additionally, the authorities have also required banks to start offering customers the 'default option of not opening the online banking platform' starting in the first half of next year. If customers wish to reopen online banking services, they must handle it in person at a bank branch.

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