Many people who bank with HSBC have been alarmed at demands from the Bank to confirm addresses and phone numbers by 1 September. This also applies to other Turkish based banks operating in TRNC. HSBC has explained that they received a demand from the Turkish banking authorities last Friday requiring them to ensure that address/telephone details were up to date by 1 Sept. This is a measure in the fight against internet fraud. They are required to suspend some services (eg internet banking) until this has been done)

We have lodged the following written complaint with HSBC by email

"I am writing from the British Resisdents' Society of the TRNC (BRS) which represents British residents in North Cyprus. HSBC has asked account holders to confirm address and telephone numbers at very short notice. Many residents are unclear why and are worried that they may lose banking facilities if they cannot provide this information by 1 Septemeber.  The BRS appreciates the government's concern, but protests at the way this has been done - without proper explanation and at very short notice.. This is not a complaint against HSBC, but I would be grateful if our views could be passed to the Turkish authorities. 

Colin Mulcahy, Govt Liaison Officer BRS"