HSBC issues alert to millions of customers ahead of Christmas | Personal Finance | Finance
HSBC has issued a warning to its millions of customers as the Christmas season approaches. With the festive period imminent, many are on the hunt for deals to save on gifts, but the world’s largest trade bank is urging vigilance.
In a post on Facebook, HSBC advised customers to pause before parting with their hard-earned cash. Online shoppers are often targeted by scammers, particularly during this time of year, when criminals use deceptive tactics to dupe people.
The global bank, which boasts millions of customers, shared a video emphasising the risks associated with fraudulent shopping websites. It also shed light on some of the strategies scammers employ to persuade people to share their details.
HSBC wrote: “If it feels like you need to buy now or miss out, take a moment. Scammers sometimes design websites to create urgency and stop you from thinking twice. Visit our website to stay up to date with the latest scam updates.”
The text was accompanied by a video demonstrating what a scam website might look like, with the bank urging customers: “Don’t walk into a trap.”
In the demonstration, HSBC created a fake advert for a pair of trainers. The post advertising the deal told customers: “Run don’t walk.” When customers clicked on the link, they were then presented with a webpage telling them to ‘hurry!’ as the ‘80% off’ promotion was part of a ‘limited time offer’.
There was also a 60-second countdown claiming the deal, which had reduced the trainers from £200 to £40, was about to expire. HSBC said: “Only 80% sure it’s safe? Don’t walk into a trap. That rush when you find the perfect deal, could be a warning sign. Fraudsters post fake ads, selling products that don’t exist.”
HSBC’s website offers further guidance on common scams to help customers recognise potential threats, reports the Mirror. As highlighted on the bank’s social media, social media shopping scams are popular. HSBC explained: “Scammers are promoting fake prize deals and sales that don’t exist via social media. Watch out for direct messages and unfamiliar URLs to avoid fraud.”
Thieves could also create fake gift cards or event tickets in an attempt to take money from Christmas shoppers. “Criminals sell fake tickets at ‘best ever prices’ or counterfeit gift cards. Check the company’s email and website before buying,” HSBC explained.
With online shopping surging during the festive season, another tactic sees criminals, create fake parcel delivery notifications. HSBC said: “Emails or texts claiming there’s a problem with a delivery can actually be tricks designed to steal your personal information. Always verify emails and make sure parcel tracking information comes from a known source.”
HSBC says there are four key points to follow when shopping online:
- Use secure sites and avoid unknown links
- Research retailers and check their return policies
- Keep your device updated and use strong passwords
- Avoid public WiFi and never share security details
Further information is available on HSBC’s website.
