HSBC Bermuda customers have been warned to be on their guard following a recent spate of 'phishing' attacks via email.

The spams, which have been on the increase over the past two weeks, claim to come from the bank, saying that an error has occurred and asking customers to clarify their banking details.

Of the several such fraudulent emails to reach The Royal Gazette this week, one contained only a few sentences, announcing simply that "an internal error has been detected on your online account", and offering a link to "rectify" the problem.

Another email, claiming to be from the "Internet banking team", was written in a font similar to that used in bank communications. It offered a list of reasons for the customer's supposed "security issue".

HSBC Bermuda said these scams are in constant circulation and advised customers to be vigilant against such attacks.

"Under no circumstances would HSBC Bermuda send emails requesting customers to confirm debit/credit card numbers, account numbers or other personal log on information," said a bank spokesman, adding that all requests by email to 'confirm' personal information should be declined.

"The bank acts immediately and works with the appropriate security authorities in disabling sites."

Any customer who does respond to a fraudulent email should contact the bank immediately at 299-5959.