HSBC Investigates Card Fraud Claims During iPhone 18 Pro Pre-Orders

On the evening of September 12, 2026, pre-orders for the iPhone 18 Pro began. On social media, users said their credit cards had been fraudulently used, receiving bank text alerts for credit card transactions showing charges at the Apple Store that they had not authorized. The users involved held cards from different banks.

An HSBC spokesperson said the bank had noted online discussion indicating that customers of various banks suspected their credit cards had been misused to order mobile phones. HSBC will investigate on behalf of its customers and, where applicable, initiate chargeback procedures in accordance with credit card organization rules. 3-D Secure can provide additional protection, but whether it applies is decided by the merchant. If HSBC customers have used their credit cards reasonably and prudently and reported the matter promptly, the bank will assist them in completing the refund process.