Working together to keep you protected
We're always working hard to keep your money safe, but the more you know about fraud and scams, the better protected you'll be.
Explore our guide to some common tactics fraudsters use to get hold of sensitive information and find out what you can do to combat them. We'd also advise you to make sure your contact details with us are up to date so we can get in touch if we spot any suspicious activity.
How do fraudsters use 'social engineering'?
Social engineering scams involve a fraudster gaining your trust. This is so you'll share details or carry out tasks that will give them access to your money.
They will usually contact you by phone (vishing), text or email (phishing) pretending to be someone from your bank, a utility company, or even the police. By pretending to be someone in a position of authority or trust, they can persuade their targets to give out security information or even transfer funds straight to them.
Here's a list of common requests a fraudster might make. If you're contacted and asked for any of these things, just hang up or ignore them.
Never give out your:
- 4-digit PIN
- Online or mobile banking passwords
- One-time passcodes
And never accept a request to:
- Generate a Secure Key code
- Transfer money from one account to another (perhaps referred to as a safe account)
- Delete your mobile banking app
- Hand over cash, cards or your cheque book
Common social engineering scams
Defend yourself against fraud
If you're contacted out of the blue by phone, email or text and something doesn't seem right:
- Stop - taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe
- Challenge - it's ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you
- Protect - double check with someone you trust, such as a friend or family member, and contact the company directly
Think you've been targeted?
If you think you've given money or personal details to a fraudster, or you see transactions you don't recognise, call us straight away. Make sure you've disconnected any calls or stopped any other conversations with fraudsters.
To help us act fast, please have your 10-digit Personal Banking Number (PBN) and 6-digit Telephone Banking PIN to hand - along with details of any unusual transactions. Don't worry if you don't have all the details, we can still help you.
Our dedicated fraud team will take the necessary steps to protect your accounts and will keep you updated on their progress.
For account or debit card issues, call us on:
HSBC Premier: +44 1534 616 313
HSBC Advance: +44 1534 616 212
Lines are open 24 hours
If you receive a suspicious-looking email, forward it to phishing@hsbc.com, delete it and empty your deleted items.
Not an HSBC customer?
If you suspect that a fake HSBC Expat account has been opened in your name, or you've received a suspicious email or phone call claiming to be from HSBC Expat, please call us immediately.
If you don't have an HSBC account, call:
Just so you know, we may monitor and record your communications with us. This is in the interest of security and to help us continually improve our service.