10 essential tips to stay safe while banking online

Your mobile phone is more than just a tool for calls or browsing the internet. It’s your gateway to managing bank accounts, shopping online, and even booking travel – all while on the go. As you rely more on online banking, protecting yourself from online fraud and cybercrimes becomes essential.

Here are 10 practical ways to enhance your digital security and stay safe online:

1. Keep your personal information updated
   Ensure your contact details are always current. This allows HSBC to notify you of any transactions, especially if suspicious activity is detected. Acting quickly can prevent unauthorised charges.
2. Use the latest software and browsers
   Regularly update your anti-virus, anti-spyware, and firewall software. Always use the latest version of your internet browser, whether on your phone, laptop, or tablet.
3. Verify your logon credentials
   HSBC Secure Logon lets you confirm your browser details, such as type, location, and time, before logging in. This added step helps protect against phishing and fraudulent websites.
4. Enable visual confirmation
   With HSBC Secure Logon, you can match a unique 6-digit number on your browser and HSBC Malaysia Mobile Banking app. This ensures you’re logging into a genuine HSBC site.
5. Avoid shared biometrics
   If you use facial or fingerprint recognition for mobile banking, make sure only your biometrics are registered on your device.
6. Go paperless
   Switch to eStatements to reduce the risk of identity theft from discarded paper statements. Digital statements are secure and easy to access through online banking.
7. Spot phishing attempts
   Learn to identify phishing emails and fake websites. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown attachments that could steal your personal data.
8. Enjoy password-free banking
   HSBC Malaysia now offers a faster, password-free log on experience. Use Face ID, fingerprint, or a 6-digit PIN in the HSBC Malaysia App. Simply scan the QR code on your browser to log on securely.
9. Don’t save logon details in browsers
   While it may save time, never allow your browser to remember your online banking credentials. Phishing emails could also contain malware attachments or links that could infect your devices and steal your personal data. Avoid installing unknown, suspicious, or unofficial app versions as this may expose your account to fraud.
10. Stay vigilant
    The more you practice these digital safety habits, the better you’ll become at spotting and avoiding fraud.

Read all online banking FAQs

HSBC takes online banking security very seriously. Here's how we're keeping you safe online.

• Bank-grade security: We’ve enabled you to log on with strong authentication method such as Biometric ID - either through fingerprint and facial recognition in your HSBC Malaysia app and dynamic QR codes for HSBC Secure Logon.
• Strong data encryption: We use industry-level encryption, so all sensitive information such as credit card details will only be readable by the bank.
• Automatic 'time-out' feature: For your security, you'll automatically be logged out of your online banking session after a certain period of inactivity.

No time like the present to update your personal particulars and passwords with online banking in just 2 easy steps.

Step 1: Log on to online banking

Step 2: Select 'personal details' to update