Background

Scammers are targeting HSBC customers with scam calls and texts that appear to be from their bank.

How the scam works

Text

  • You receive a text message, which may appear in the same thread as genuine text messages from HSBC
  • The text message claims there was an attempt to gain access to your account or fraudulent activity
  • It includes a phone number to call - this is not HSBC’s phone number
  • The phone number connects HSBC customers to scammers who ask for your username, personal details and bank codes in order to gain access to your account.

Phone

  • You receive a call from someone claiming to be a HSBC worker, from a number that looks to be the genuine HSBC phone line
  • They claim there was an attempt to gain access to your account or fraudulent activity
  • The scammer asks for your username, personal details and bank codes in order to gain access to your account.

Scam message screenshot

Scam screenshot of text message. Text header reads 'HSBC ALERT' and text reads 'Your payment to (account number) was stopped for further checks. If this was NOT you please contact us on (phone number).'

Protect yourself

  • Never provide online banking passwords, one-time security codes, pins or tokens to anyone over the phone.
  • Contact your bank or financial institution immediately, using your banking app or a phone number you have sourced yourself, if you have concerns about the security of your bank account.

What to do next

  • Help others by reporting scams to Scamwatch.
  • Tell your friends and family: it helps to share your experience, they can support you and you can help protect them from scams.