Citi Hong Kong unveils mobile account lock feature

Customers can temporarily disable access to transaction services via the app.

Citibank has introduced an online account lock feature for its Hong Kong banking services, reportedly the first in the city to launch this security feature.

The "Emergency e-Banking Service Lock" allows customers to temporarily disable access to transaction services via Citi Mobile App when they suspect that their account has been compromised. They also have the option to restore the services digitally.

Apart from disabling access to Citibank online, customers can also activate a read-only mode for the Citi Mobile app, with only transaction details accessible.
 
Card transactions, ATM services and pre-authorized and pre-scheduled payments or transactions will not be affected. Customers who have lost their card, or suspect their card has been compromised, are asked to directly notify Citi via the “Report Card Lost” option in the app.

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Customers may restore access to Citibank Online and e-banking services anytime by deactivating the lock using the same device. Customers will need to reset the password during the deactivation process. 

More than 88% of Citibank Hong Kong’s customers are now digitally active, said Sarah O, head of digital growth at Citibank Hong Kong.

“We are delighted to be the first bank in Hong Kong to launch this security feature. We will continue to prioritize customer protection and strive to ensure a safe and secure banking experience for our customers,” she said.