HSBC urges islanders to 'Take Five' after spike in scam reports

Sunday 17 March 2024

HSBC is urging islanders to be alert to potential fraud attempts following a spike in reports of scammers pretending to be the bank.

The high-street bank has advised its customers to ‘Take Five’ and stop and think: “Does this feel right?”

Express reported in January that fraudsters had netted more than £130,000 from customers in one week with a similar sophisticated scam.

A statement from HSBC said: "Your bank will never ask you to share passwords or PIN numbers, or to move your money. If in doubt, call your bank on the number shown on the back of your debit card.

"Protecting customers from scams and fraudsters is a priority for us. Our advice to customers if they receive a suspicious call, is to not provide personal security information including security codes.

"HSBC will never ask customers to disclose security information including passwords and codes. Do not click or reply to a message stating it is from HSBC."

The statement continued: "We have expert teams working around the clock to identify suspicious transactions amongst the many millions made each day, but people can also help protect themselves by taking note of fraud warnings when making payments, and keeping up to date with the latest scam warnings which are highlighted on our website and social media channels.

"Scammers may claim to be a business or authority you know and trust. They may know personal details about you and can even make their phone number look authentic using 'number spoofing'.

"But if someone calls you out of the blue and asks you to move money or share your account details, just hang up."

What to do if someone contacts you 'out of the blue':

HSBC has issued top tips on what to do if you are contacted out of the blue via a call, email or text message:

• Stop and think – if it's unexpected, be suspicious
• Don't call numbers in messages or emails without checking they're genuine
• Don't click on unfamiliar links, but go to the official website or app
• If in doubt, check with a friend or family member before taking action

Don't...

• Don't click on any links
• Don't download attachments
• Don't reply
• Don't complete forms requesting personal information
• Don't give your details or money to someone you have not met face to face
• Don't feel pressured into taking action, such as paying a fine or fee

Do...

• Do use reputable and trusted vendors when shopping online
• Do check the website is secure - look for https:// and a padlock icon
• Do seek independent financial advice if you are an inexperienced investor
• Do report to HSBC, either online or on the number on the back of your card
• Do inform your mobile operator (if the scam is sent by SMS)
• Do delete the message

For the latest information and advice, visit HSBC Channel Islands and Isle of Man Fraud Guide.