Is it standard for HSBC to ask for my SS card etc?

Question

I recently applied to HSBC for a savings account.

Now they've asked me for copies of two photo identification, and a copy of my SS card.

Doesn't that seem a little too much? or is it standard?

Seems a little high risk to me.

Answer 1

Most banks have increased their requirements  to prove citizenship when opening a bank account in response to increased criticism over pandering to illegal immigrants.  I've never had to show my SS card to open an account, but I don't find it surprising at all.

Answer 2

It may sound too much but with identity theft of today HSBC is doing this to protect you, since you are the only one on your account and want to do a transaction they can verify that is you, they need a copy of your social to verify that it's your card (and number) are not someone else's, they also have to tell the IRS how much interest you have earned every year