Post by Santosh Puthran on Jan 24, 2006 6:15:42 GMT
Phishing
Security matters
Patching your PC
Firewalls
Anti-virus software
Anti-spyware software
Phishing
Q. What is 'phishing'?
A. 'Phishing' is an attempt by fraudsters to 'fish' for your banking details. 'Phishing' attempts usually appear as an email appearing to be from your bank. Within the email you are then usually encouraged to click a link to a fraudulent log on page designed to capture your details.
Q. How do they get my email address?
A. Not from us. Lists of live email addresses are bought or swapped between unscrupulous parties.
Q. How do they know where I bank?
A. They don't - but if they send enough emails they are bound to reach some customers.
Q. The email says it's from HSBC - is it?
A. There is a possibility that it may not be. We currently use secure 'My messages', from within Internet Banking, to advise you of service related issues or product changes. We may contact you by email, but we will never ask you to click on a link which then directs you to enter or confirm your security details. By contrast, this is typically what a 'phishing' email does.
Q. What should I do if I get a suspicious looking email?
A. If in doubt, delete it. This caution should apply to all unexpected emails with links or attachments.
Q. What should I do if I believe I've been a victim of a 'phishing' fraud?
A. You should call us on 0845 600 2290* (textphone 08457 125 563*) so that we can investigate and change your security number.
* Lines are open from 8am to 10pm every day (except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day). To ensure that we carry out your instructions accurately, to help us continually improve our service and in the interests of security, we may monitor and/or record your telephone calls with us.
