HSBC launches probe into 'criminal' Jersey accounts

HSBC is investigating allegations criminals used offshore accounts at its Jersey business for money laundering and tax evasion, the BBC reports.

The bank confirmed it is looking into the claims, which were revealed by the Daily Telegraph. The Telegraph said tax authorities are in possession of details of every British client of HSBC in Jersey - about 4,000 people - after a whistleblower "secretly provided a detailed list of names, addresses and account balances earlier this week". HSBC said it is investigating an alleged loss of certain client data in Jersey "as a matter of urgency", the BBC reports. It also said it has not been contacted by HRMC. "Clamping down on those who try to cheat the system through evading taxes and...