How bank’s security questions left one user angry and helpless
When did validating an account get so complicated, wonders journalist, as he realises refusal to provide personal information can lead to his HSBC account being restricted
“Hello, Chris Wood speaking. HSBC? Five minutes? Yes, sure, go ahead Jason.”
“Security questions? Right, go on then …”
“Just a few more questions to validate my account? Look how long will this take? I’m a busy man – I have deadlines, you know. [Sigh] OK, let’s get on with it then.”
“Hang on a minute, you want to know what? My employer, my occupation, my job title, is it a full-time position, what date did I join the company? That’s all private information I’m afraid and I don’t feel comfortable giving it out. Goodbye … er, hang on a minute, what do you need this information for … and what happens if I don’t provide it?”
“Mandated by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. I see. All customers’ accounts subject to validation. Aha. My account will be restricted if I don’t help you to validate it. Right. So, what exactly do these restrictions entail?”
“YOU WHAT! THAT’S OUTRAGEOUS! RESTRICTIONS ON WITHDRAWALS AND DEPOSITS – THAT’S DOWNRIGHT BLACKMAIL! DO YOU KNOW HOW LONG I’VE BEEN BANKING WITH HSBC?”