What is the Secure Key?
When using online banking, our Secure Key gives an added layer of protection to your online banking transactions. It is uniquely linked to you and allows you to carry out online banking transactions securely, by providing you with one-time codes that are valid for a short period of time.
What is the Digital Secure Key?
The Digital Secure Key is a digital version of your Physical Secure Key and will be a feature on the HSBC Malta Mobile Banking app. It works in a similar way to the Physical Secure Key to provide added protection to your accounts and transactions. You can use it to generate unique, one-time use security codes to log on to online banking, as well as to authorise payments to non-saved payees.
The Digital Secure Key will work on supported operating systems (Android 7, iOS 13 or newer operating systems) and devices as a part of the HSBC Malta Mobile Banking app. It is a replacement of your Physical Secure Key, so you won't need to carry a Physical Secure Key with you anymore. It offers a more convenient way to access the full range of online banking services.
More details on the new Digital Secure Key can be found in the Online Banking and Mobile Banking terms and conditions.
What is the difference between the Digital and the Physical Secure keys?
Both devices serve the same purpose. The key difference between the two is that the Digital Secure Key is a part of the HSBC Malta Banking app, while the Physical Secure Key is a separate device.
How will I activate the Digital Secure Key?
You’ll find the Digital Secure Key within the latest version of the app.
If you’ve used the HSBC Malta Banking app before, you will simply launch the app and log on using your 6-digit PIN or biometrics. You’ll then be prompted to switch to Digital Secure Key. To complete the Digital Secure Key activation process, select ‘Confirm and continue’.
If you choose not to activate the Digital Secure Key, you will not be able to use the HSBC Mobile Banking App until you agree to activate the Digital Secure Key. You will still be able to log in to the HSBC Online Banking using your current Physical Secure Key, and authorise card online payments using SMS One-Time PIN and ePIN (Phone Banking PIN).
If you change your mind you can activate the Digital Secure Key at any time through the HSBC Mobile Banking App.
If you’re new to the HSBC Malta Banking app, you’ll need to download it from the App Store or Google Play Store. Once you’ve installed it, follow the instructions on screen to register and log on. You’ll then be prompted to activate your Digital Secure Key – just select ‘Confirm and continue’.