Tips for your PIN

Changing Your PIN

If you know your existing PIN, you can change it at any HSBC Bank Canada ATM. Select the PIN Change option on screen and follow the instructions.

If you do not have a PIN or have forgotten or lost it, contact HSBC for assistance. 

Choosing a Memorable PIN

It’s best to choose a PIN that is easy to remember but known only to you. Avoid using sequences like “1234” or numbers that others can guess, like your birthday or phone number. It is important to use a PIN you have not used in the previous 12 months. If you travel, choose a 4 digit PIN as some terminals overseas will not accept a PIN with more than 4 digits.

Unlocking Your PIN

You’ll have three consecutive chances to enter your PIN correctly, even if it’s at three separate cash machines or at three different retailers. If you make a mistake after the first attempt, simply try again. But to protect your card against unlawful use, three failed attempts will lock your PIN.

If your PIN has been locked, contact HSBC for further guidance to reset or unlock your PIN.

Protect your PIN 

Your PIN is an important security element of your chip HSBC debit card and HSBC MasterCard^® - it identifies you as the card owner and is the key to authorizing your transactions. It is therefore very important that you know your PIN and never disclose it to anybody. Remember that HSBC will never solicit your personal or security information via email or by phone. Here are some good security practices to protect yourself from card fraud:

• Treat your card like cash. Keep it in a safe place and never leave it unattended.
• Memorize your PIN and keep it confidential. Don’t write it down.
• Never reveal your PIN to anyone – no one from a financial institution, the police or a merchant will ever ask you for your PIN.
• Consider changing your PIN from time to time.
• Always use your hand or body to shield the entry of your PIN.
• Review your statements regularly for any unauthorized transactions.
• If your card is lost, stolen, or retained by an ATM, notify us immediately.
• Visit our Security page to learn more about protecting yourself and your information