2. How long will it take to replace this fine piece of technology when customers lose or break it, especially for those of us that don't live in Hong Kong?

3. Why is this our responsibility and not HSBC's?

HSBC has been trying to rid itself of its non-corporate clients for the last few years now by raising fees, closing branches to create longer lines and great inconvenience, and raising the bar for new consumer customers. Because HSBC owns approximately 70 percent of Hang Seng Bank, in Hong Kong it would prefer to see individuals use those ATMs, and keep the big corporate folks for itself.

The Device, which the Grouch hasn't received yet, doesn't meet his need for flexibility and portability. Being able to open up a secure connection on a browser and login using a password does. Having to fish out the anti-phishing device every time the Grouch wants to login, is a complicated step for most customers that will eventually lead to problems and the temporary inability to access Online HSBC, a service upon which many of us rely for our personal finances.

Here are some alternate solutions: ask to verify information other than the password. Although phishermen ask for a complete set of personal data, the usual forgotten password questions, like pet's name, place of birth, or mother's maiden name are not usually included, and could be used for simple verification.