The legal significance of PINs in banking

Document Type

Journal article

Source Publication

Hong Kong Law Journal

Publication Date

2000

Volume

30

Issue

2

First Page

194

Last Page

205

Publisher

Sweet & Maxwell Asia

Abstract

This paper explores the legal nature of a Personal Identification Number (PIN) and the legal position when it is voluntarily or involuntarily disclosed to a third party. It also comments on the legality of the standard form contracts that contain terms relating to the use of PINs. It will be argued that the common law should now regard a PIN as a signature, in light of the development of modern information technology. Further, a PIN holder owes a duty of care to his bank when using his PIN. However, if the PIN disclosure is obtained from the holder by unconscionable or deceptive means, the holder should not be held liable for any consequential losses. Moreover, a bank has a duty to warn its customers of any criminal act which may be practised upon a PIN holder.

Print ISSN

03780600

Publisher Statement

Copyright @ 2000 Hong Kong Journal Ltd. Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.

Language

English

Recommended Citation

Shum, C., & Ko, S.-h. (2000). The legal significance of PINs in banking. Hong Kong Law Journal, 30(2), 194-205.

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