HSBC app takes a dim view of sideloaded Bitwarden installations

Reports indicate HSBC’s UK mobile banking app is blocking access on devices where Bitwarden is installed via F-Droid, potentially due to integrity checks that flag apps not from Google Play. While Bitwarden is available through official stores, users sideloading via F-Droid were affected; HSBC cites customer protection and malware risk checks but has not provided technical details. Representatives from Bitwarden and F-Droid suspect HSBC’s configuration (e.g., Play Integrity/SafeNet) and are open to discussions, while users consider workarounds like separate profiles or devices.