HSBC scammers empty bank accounts of more than £80,000 - what to watch out for

Wednesday 03 January 2024

Six people have been scammed out of a combined total of more than £80,000 by someone claiming to be from the HSBC Fraud Department.

Guernsey Police have so far received 11 reports from people who have been targeted.

“While we do not have all the information around how this scam is operating, the scammer - who is described as having a well-spoken British male accent - is calling victims and claiming to be from the HSBC Fraud Department,” Guernsey Police said.

“They are calling armed with a lot of the victim’s personal information before any conversation has taken place. On the phone they also confirm the first four digits of the person’s card number if 4659, however this number or a close variation of it is used for all HSBC current account cards.

“Once the scammer has the victim’s trust, they ask them to move money into different accounts that appear to still be part of the victim’s account to ‘protect them from fraud’. It is during this process that the scammer is able to steal money.

“If you are ever unexpectedly contacted by someone claiming to be your bank, we would advise you are always suspicious. If you have any doubts at all, you should hang up and contact your bank through different means, using the number on a printed statement or on the bank’s website. 

“Before moving any money that your bank is asking you to, always think twice, and pay once. Be cautious and don’t let scammers intimidate or scare you into acting quickly."

If you think you have fallen victim to a scam you should immediately contact your bank for support. 

You can also contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk. or Guernsey Police on 222222 or via fraud@guernsey.pnn.police.uk.