Whether you are using the internet generally or using our Internet Banking services, online security is important for all of us. HSBC is committed to providing high standards of Internet Banking security for our customers. Click here to find out more about what you can do to protect yourself when you are online.

Protect your personal information and your money when you bank online with HSBC

We want our customers to feel confident that their information is protected by one of the most sophisticated online security systems in the world, which is why, when you become a Personal Internet Banking customer with HSBC we provide you with an Online Security Device.

Why has HSBC selected the Online Security Device for additional Internet Banking protection?

After conducting detailed studies, HSBC decided to incorporate the Online Security Device into HSBC's Internet Banking service because it offers an additional layer of security to protect our customers' account details. The device is also simple and convenient to use.

The HSBC Online Security Device enables access to Internet Banking by using a process called '2-factor authentication', which means there are 2 steps to authenticate the Internet Banking user.

• Step 1 involves the registered user logging in using an Internet Banking ID and Password know only to themselves.
• The second step (hence the term 2-factor authentication) involves the generation of a unique code from the Online Security Device.

HSBC's Online Security Device will generate a time-sensitive, single-use six-digit security code for customers to use when logging on and for selected Internet Banking transactions. The device generates random codes which can only be used once, and is entered once the user has completed Step 1, above.

The security device helps protect you from phishing, Trojans/keylogging, shoulder surfing and screen capturing since it is only valid for a shorter period of time and can only be used once. Someone who observed or captured your security code for Internet Banking would not be able to re-use this same security code for access.

How does it work?

Find out how to activate your Online Security Device for the first time as well as how to use it.

How does the Online Security Device compare to other Internet Banking security measures?

Online security measures adopted by other banks and financial institutions include digital certificates or text message security codes.

The generation of the security code using the Online Security Device is not dependent on mobile phone signal availability or the geographic location of our customers, who may need to access Internet Banking while overseas.

From our customer research, we know that many of our active customers prefer to access Internet Banking from several different locations. The Online Security Device is a portable, standalone security device that requires no system adjustments, downloads, or plug-ins.

What do customers think about the Online Security Device?

The Online Security device was launched in October 2005 and since it was implemented has generated positive feedback.

We want customers to feel confident about their security when banking online with HSBC and have received some positive feedback, for example:

"Just thought I'd tell you I received HSBC's Online Security Device for internet banking yesterday. What a brilliant idea! With so much internet fraud around these days and people hacking into bank accounts its great to see HSBC are concerned about their customers. Congratulations on being so innovative to adopt this idea... I wish all banks would follow suit." Craig Johnston, HSBC New Zealand customer

How can I benefit from HSBC Internet Banking security?

If you are a new customer with HSBC New Zealand

The fastest way to register for Internet Banking is to open an Online Savings Account. Apply online.

If you are an existing customer with HSBC New Zealand

To get started and keep your PC secure you need the following:

• an Online Security Device, plus
• your ATM card number and ATM PIN, or
• a Personal Banking Number (PBN) and a Personal Identification Number (PIN)

To have an Online Security Device and Personal Banking Number (PBN) plus Personal Identification Number (PIN) sent to you, download and complete this form and post it to

• PO Box 5947, Wellesley Street, Auckland or fax it to 0800 803080 and we will send them to you.

When you have received your Online Security Device, and your 2 personal ID numbers (either your Personal Identification Number and Personal Banking Number, OR your ATM card number and your ATM PIN), you'll be able to register online. This takes less than 5 minutes. (If you need to come back and do this later, just visit www.hsbc.co.nz and select 'register for Internet Banking' at the top right of the homepage)

If you need any help or have questions relating to our Internet Banking service, view our FAQs or call us on: 0800 472263.

Caring for your Online Security Device

Some helpful points regarding the ongoing care of your Online Security Device.

Internet Banking with HSBC

Find out more about the benefits of banking online.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions about our Online Security Device, find out more here or call us on 0800 472263.