In a recent update to the HSBC app they’ve added a screen to prevent you from using the app unless you use the default (google) keyboard.

They do a similar thing if you have an accessibility service running that can access the screens content. A fair enough security warning if you’ve happened to install a dodgy keyboard app, but highly frustrating when using an open source alternative that enhances the security and privacy over the default option (HeliBoard in my case).

I haven’t found a way to circumvent the page yet. It would be useful if Android allowed you to block the permission to query all packages, but alas.

  • 3 dogs in a trenchcoat
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    06 months ago

    They do a similar thing if you have an accessibility service running that can access the screens content

    Well fuck disabled people I guess?

    • @[email protected]
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      6 months ago

      Actually, banks are a heavily regulated industry and they have to comply with strict non-discrimination requirements including making all reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities.

      If you know someone who uses a screen reader and is therefore unable to use HSBC’s app, encourage them to file a complaint with the appropriate regulator (in the US, try https://www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/ ).

      Banks are very attentive about listening to their regulators.

      (Of course, it’s possible that what HSBC did still works with commonly used screen readers for the blind because they actually thought of this.)

  • @[email protected]
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    6 months ago

    I’m not sure about this app especially, but I hate that my bank personally has so many restrictions on the app usage but I can also just use a web browser on God knows what with who knows what extensions installed and they’re all like sure, come on in!

    • JoYo
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      6 months ago

      were you also against cache attestation and manifest v3?

  • Admiral Patrick
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    46 months ago

    If my bank’s app ever forces me to choose between my keyboard of preference and their app, it’s their app that’s getting uninstalled.

  • Pasta Dental
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    66 months ago

    banks will do everything in their power to restrict who can use their services in the name of security but are absolutely fine with 6-char password size limits and SMS 2FA

    • asudox
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      6 months ago

      They are in an illusion where their backend is absolutely perfect, but third party apps like open source keyboards implement spyware that spies on users predictable bank passwords. (FlorisBoard is the biggest predator)

    • @[email protected]OP
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      06 months ago

      Yeah, I don’t really have a reason to stay with HSBC. A responsible me would look for a bank with better credit card interest. Might as well shop around for a new one.

  • @[email protected]
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    16 months ago

    Considering that HSBC is remarkably evil, even compared to other major international banking corporations, this might be a good nudge to stop doing business with them.