HSBC (Student Account) ran credit check for a credit card student did not apply for

Willihe

Child opened HSBC Student account last week (converted from previously held Child/ basic account) and then receives a letter stating they've been refused an HSBC credit card due to information from credit reference agencies. But no application was made for a credit card when opening the account. This was confirmed by HSBC when speaking to their agent on phone today, so the credit checks were not authorised. HSBC don't seem to have a record of letter sent.  How do they ensure their credit reference agencies correct the records for these unauthorised checks when no application for credit has been made.  Not great for an 18 year old's first experience of real-world banking!

cymruchris

As they have no record of the letter - the person concerned might want to check their credit files first to see if a hard search appears. There should be one for the student account, as that usually comes with an overdraft, but there shouldn't be a second. See what's on the files before deciding your next course of action. 

[Deleted User]

A single search is not a big issue given they are a student and unlikely to be applying for credit any time soon. Going on about "unauthorised" credit checks is not going to achieve anything beyond call centre staff having a giggle when you get off the phone. Let your kid enjoy university instead of arguing with minimum wage staff.

As an aside, them having a credit card and using it responsibly (spending on basics, paying off in full every month by direct debit) will result in building up a positive history for the next few years putting them in good standing for future credit use like car finance, rewards credit cards, even a mortgage