HSBC in the Channel Islands and Isle of Man is urging the public to be alert to potential scams following a spate of fraud attacks being reported across the islands with scammers pretending to be from HSBC.
Sadly, fraudsters are criminals trying to trick people out of money. They pose as trustworthy organisations to encourage people to hand over personal or financial information. There are scams where customers are told their account has been compromised, or they need to move their money to a ‘safe account’. This is not genuine and your bank will never ask you to do this.
HSBC’s advice to people is to ‘Take Five’ and to stop and think – does this feel right? 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.
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.
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.
If customers think they may have been scammed, they should contact HSBC immediately using the number on their card or visit a branch if they are unable to call.
How to stay one step ahead of fraudsters
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 – go to the official website or app
- If in doubt, check with a friend or family member before taking action
What not to do:
- 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
What to 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
