Malware protection for Android

Given the increase in malware scams, we’ve enhanced our security measures on Android devices to detect potential high-risk apps.

If our app detects accessibility permissions that are incompatible with its safeguards, it will show an alert and stop you using the app. This doesn't mean your bank account is at risk. It just makes it tougher for fraudsters to put malware on your Android device and compromise your account.

Accessibility services are designed to help customers who have trouble using their device.

Services such as screen readers or text to speech can make it easier to use our app, but they also need permission to do things like read the text on screen or record the characters you enter.

In the wrong hands, these could be used to record confidential data, such as your log on details, putting your security at risk.

Please follow ALL of these steps on your device before launching the HSBC India Mobile Banking app:

To avoid software attacks, never open suspicious links or download apps from untrusted or unknown channels, as they could contain harmful malware. Only download apps from official app stores and delete unused apps.

Never give full control of your device or share your screen with any third party unless you know they are a trusted source.

The steps to turn off accessibility permissions may differ by model. Please refer to question 6 or check with the manufacturer.

You don’t need to delete or re-install the HSBC India app.

The process for changing accessibility settings can vary, depending on the device and its operating system. Search for Accessibility in Settings to find the relevant section.

For more help, please call us or visit one of our branches.

If you still see an alert saying 'Your device is at risk', it doesn't mean your bank account is at risk.

Just relaunch the HSBC India app and you can restore access and continue using our app if the permissions for the listed apps have been turned off or if they’ve been uninstalled.