Home Help Secure Key Digital Secure Key Current Page

Digital Secure Key

What is a Digital Secure Key?


A Digital Secure Key is an extra layer of security for your bank account, which lets us know it’s really you that’s accessing your account. It’s built into the first direct App, and does all this…

  • lets you to log on to Mobile and Online Banking securely
  • generates a temporary code you'll need when sending money to someone new
  • helps keep your bank account safe from fraudsters
  • allows you to log on to Mobile Banking using your face or fingerprint.

 

How do I get a Digital Secure Key?

You'll be prompted to activate your Digital Secure Key when you register for Mobile and Online Banking. If you didn't activate it then, here's what to do:

  1. Once you’ve downloaded our App on a compatible device, select ‘Log on’. 
  2. Enter your username, the 3 requested characters from your password, and your memorable information.
  3. On the screen introducing our Digital Secure Key, select 'Activate', then follow the simple on-screen instructions.

Digital Secure Key - Getting started

  • Switching over from a Physical Secure Key?

    If you'd like to swap your Physical Secure Key (the one that looks like a mini calculator) for a Digital Secure Key, just follow these 5 simple steps:

    1. Download the first direct App on a compatible device, if you haven’t already. Then log on using your username.
    2. Use your Physical Secure Key to generate a code, and enter it into the App.
    3. Enter the answer to your memorable question.
    4. Once you’ve logged on, open the menu (tap the 3 horizontal lines).
    5. Select 'Security Settings' and then 'Activate Digital Secure Key'. And that's it – you're done.

    As soon as you've activated your Digital Secure Key, we'll automatically deactivate your old Physical Secure Key to help keep your account secure.

    Don't have our App? Download it here >

    Want to recycle your old Physical Secure Key? You can post it to us at FREEPOST, HSBC, SKR CENTRE or pop it in to any branch of HSBC UK.

    How does a Digital Secure Key keep my account safe?

    Your Digital Secure Key is part of our 'two-factor authentication' security system, and a bit like having an extra lock (a very fancy one) on your front door.

    A password is one level of security (or one ‘factor’). But fraudsters can try and guess passwords, making them vulnerable. Two-factor authentication means there’s another layer of security (on top of your password) to keep you even more secure. Your Digital Secure Key generates a one-time security code each time you log on, meaning it’s much harder for fraudsters to breach.

    How safe is mobile banking?

  • Digital Secure Key FAQs

    If you don't have a smartphone or compatible tablet - you can use a Physical Secure Key

    You'll need to call on 03 456 100 100 and we’ll send you one out in the post.

    Please bear in mind it can take up to 10 working days for your Secure Key to arrive. So if you need to get access to Online Banking sooner, you’ll find a Digital Secure Key much faster to set up and easier to use in the long run.

    Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.  App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.