Internet Safety Tips
If you've followed our guidelines for securing your computer, you've already made it harder for someone to steal your identity. But all the safeguards in the world won't help you if you give your personal information away. So be smart and follow the guidelines below to protect yourself online.
Navigate Safety Guidelines for:
Guidelines for Safely Banking Online
1. Access online banking sites by typing the URL directly into the address bar. That way you know the site is legitimate. You may want to bookmark the site for future visits.
2. Look for a lock icon in the browser and "https:" in the address line. They tell you the page is secure. (Still not sure? Double-click the lock icon to verify the security certificate.)
3. Check for anything unusual, unprofessional or out of place such as a slightly altered domain name like www.hbsc.com, www.hbs.com or www.hsbc-security; an imperfect logo; or urgent account verification requests.
4. Review the website's privacy policy to learn how your information will be used and protected.
5. Don't use the same Password for banking that you use for other online accounts.
6. Don't use public computers to do your banking, including those at libraries, internet cafes and schools.
Guidelines for Strong Passwords
1. Don't share your Password with anyone.
2. Memorize your Password. Don't write it down or store it on your computer.
3. Use upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols.
4. Avoid common words or obvious names. Think of a phrase that's memorable to you but not to others. (For example, "My left-handed brother has two green eyes" becomes "Ml_bh2Ge".)
5. Use Passwords that are at least eight characters long.
6. Change Passwords regularly (at least every 90 days).
Guidelines for Safe Web Browsing
1. Don't respond to unsolicited requests for account information.
2. Don't click on pop-ups. Better yet, set your browser to block them.
3. Don't give out personal information to blogs, forums and other social networking sites.
4. Don't visit unsafe sites. You'll open yourself up to a flood of spam, pop-ups and spyware.
5. When shopping online, use secure sites that encrypt your credit card information. Look for the locked padlock icon in the browser frame and "https:" in the address line.
6. Be suspicious of odd error messages. Don't click on them or respond to them. Scan your computer to remove any virus or spyware.
7. Scan your computer files regularly, once a week at a minimum.
Remember: No one at HSBC will ever ask you for your Password.
Guidelines for Safe Email
1. Don't open email from someone you don't know. Read subject lines carefully. Don't be tricked by a friendly tone or urgent request.
2. Turn off the preview pane in your email program.
3. Don't click on links or attachments in unsolicited email, especially if they tell you the problem is urgent or the attached file ends in ".exe."
4. Don't give out personal information. Check a website's privacy policy before you give them your email address.
5. Delete email from unknown sources immediately. Use your junk mail filter.
6. Don't forward chain emails. Spam already makes up around 50 percent of all email traffic.
Tip: If HSBC sends e-mail to your personal e-mail address, it will always include a personal or account identifier. Any links included will be to an HSBC web site information page, not directly to a page that requires log-in credentials or personal information. Remember: No one at HSBC will ever ask you for your Password.
Guidelines for Safe Instant Messaging
1. Block people you don't want to know, especially complete strangers. Adjust your IM settings so that only people on your buddy or friends list can IM you.
2. Don't reply to strangers, especially if their messages are rude or annoying. It could be a predator
3. Don't click on unsolicited links or attachments. They could contain a virus or spyware
4. Don't create a profile that includes personal information. It can open you up to harassment and attract predators
5. Know your children's online friends and supervise their chat areas
Step Up Your Security
Need help?
Contact us immediately at 1-800-975-HSBC (1-800-975-4722) if you receive suspicious email or suspect fraud.
