HSBC services disrupted on Black Friday amidst high user traffic

HSBC has said sorry as thousands of UK clients have reported they are unable to access mobile and online banking.

Downdetector Reports Inaccessibility

On Black Friday, a day marked by extensive retail discounts and increased online transactions, Downdetector reported over 4,100 complaints from users unable to access HSBC services. This disruption potentially affected individuals planning purchases or transactions amidst the shopping spree.

HSBC Acknowledges Internal System Issue

HSBC addressed the issue, expressing regret for the inconvenience caused. According to the bank’s statement to the BBC, the disruption stemmed from an internal system issue. However, HSBC assured that the problem exclusively impacted HSBC UK customers, with no repercussions for customers of its other divisions like First Direct or M&S Bank.

Impact on Customers

Customers, like Marius Acsinte, voiced their frustration due to the service interruption. Acsinte highlighted the difficulties he faced, citing the unavailability of his HSBC account through the app, hindering his ability to make essential payments, such as rent payments due on the day of the disruption.

Bank’s Apology and Resolution

HSBC issued an apology for the disruption and emphasized their commitment to resolving the issue swiftly to minimize inconvenience for affected customers. The incident highlights the vulnerability of digital banking services to technical glitches, particularly during high-traffic periods like Black Friday.

Conclusion

The disruption in HSBC’s services during Black Friday illustrates the impact of technical issues on users heavily reliant on digital banking platforms. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by financial institutions during peak periods and the importance of prompt resolution to ensure uninterrupted access for customers.