Secure Key | More Options to Log On Securely

HSBC UK
Fraud and security centre
What is a secure key

What is a secure key?

With Mobile and Online Banking, your safety is paramount and we take your online security very seriously. In the face of increasingly sophisticated online threats, the secure key gives you valuable added protection. This is because in addition to your normal credentials of a username and passwords, you must also enter an authenticated code from your secure key which only you will have access to. You can choose from either a Digital Secure Key or Physical Secure Key as both can be used as part of the two-factor authentication process.

How does a secure key work?

You will use it to generate a temporary security code which you will use to access Mobile and Online Banking. The code is generated with the use of a PIN or password only known by you (or fingerprint/face ID if eligible) and ensures only you can access your accounts.

Fraud Advice: Never give out your security codes to anyone. Fraudsters pretend to be people you’d trust, like a company you may pay bills to, a bank or even the police

Why choose the Digital Secure Key?

Convenience - it's part of the HSBC UK Mobile Banking app
Use it to log on to the HSBC UK Mobile Banking app and Online Banking
Easy access – As the Digital Secure key is integrated into the app, you will not need to generate a code to log on, just use your Digital Secure Key password
Biometric ID – if you have a compatible iPhone or Android device, you can log on using Apple Touch/Face ID or Android Fingerprint
Its quick and easy to set up
As long as you have your mobile device you will have full digital banking access.

If you already have a Physical Secure Key, you can upgrade to a Digital Secure Key

Compatible devices

Digital Secure Key can be devices running up-to-date software. The HSBC UK Mobile Banking app can be used on Android™, iPhone, iPad, iPad Mini and iPod used on Android™ and iPhone touch devices running up-to-date software.

*iPhone, iPad, iPod FaceID and TouchID are trademarks of Apple Inc, registered in the U.S. and other countries. Android is a trademark of Google LLC.

If you don’t have a mobile device we offer a Physical Secure Key

It resembles a small calculator which you will need to have full access to digital banking.
You’ll need a 4-8 digit PIN to enable you to log onto Online Banking

Frequently asked questions

The easiest way to upgrade to a Digital Secure Key is via the HSBC UK Mobile App. Simply download the app and follow the instructions to log on using your existing Online Banking log on details. Go to the main menu and select 'security settings' and then 'switch to a Digital Secure Key' and follow the instructions.

Yes, whichever secure key you choose to take it will give you access to both Online Banking and the HSBC Mobile Banking app.

Remember, the Digital Secure Key provides you with additional functionality in the app such as setting up a new payee.

No, you can't use someone else’s secure key. To maintain the security and integrity of the system, only one secure key can be activated and linked to each customer.

If you don’t have your secure key, you can log on to Online Banking using your memorable answer and password, but will only have access to limited functionality.

We understand that you won’t always have access to a secure key. So we still offer limited access to Online Banking if you log on using your password. This means that you can still access a range of Online Banking services, such as viewing your balances, accessing your statements and making payments to existing payees.

Two factor authentication is required for some Online Banking services, such as paying someone for the first time and applying for certain products. You’ll be asked to use your secure key before carrying out these requests.

When you are making a payment to a person or company you have never paid before, you need to use your secure key to set up the payment. The unique code generated by your secure key can only be accessed by you so we know it is you that is authorising the payment and no one can change the destination of the payment fraudulently. You will only need to do this once, any subsequent payments to this account can be made without your secure key. Never share your secure key password or your secure key codes with anyone, even if they say they are from the Bank.

The Digital Secure Key is compatible with normal VoiceOver (iOS) or TalkBack (Android) features.

With the Physical Secure Key, you can order a larger version with audio support – just contact us on 03457 404 404

If you have chosen a Digital Secure Key and we hold a valid telephone number and email address, you can activate this immediately by following the instructions on the Mobile Banking App.

If you’ve requested a Physical Secure Key, if you have requested one to be delivered in the post, please allow 5-7 days to receive it. Alternatively you can also visit your local branch to collect one.

For more information on secure keys, visit our How to page.

What is a secure key?

How does a secure key work?

Why choose the Digital Secure Key?

Compatible devices

We also offer a Physical Secure Key

Frequently asked questions

How do I upgrade to a Digital Secure Key?

Can I use my secure key to access Mobile Banking and Online Banking?

If I don’t have my secure key can I use someone else's?

What if I don’t have my secure key to hand?

What does limited access to the Online Banking service mean?

Why do I have to use my secure key to set up a new payment?

What options do you have for customers with accessibility requirements?

How quickly can I set up a secure key?

Useful links

How to use your Secure Key?

Secure Key troubleshooting guide

Replacement Secure Key

Customer support