Analyzing Hrvatska poštanska banka (HPB) based on the provided criteria involves evaluating multiple aspects of its operations, online presence, and potential risks. Below is a comprehensive analysis addressing online complaints, risk level assessment, website security, WHOIS lookup, IP and hosting, social media, red flags, regulatory status, user precautions, and potential brand confusion. The official website provided is https://www.hpb.hr/en/about-us/110, which serves as the primary reference for HPB’s online presence.

1. Online Complaint Information ¶

• Sources of Complaints: There is limited publicly available data on widespread customer complaints specifically targeting HPB’s online services in the provided references or recent web searches. However, HPB has established a robust complaint resolution system, being the first Croatian bank to commit to alternative consumer dispute resolution (ADR) since 2018.
• Over 70% of complaints are resolved within 24 hours through first-contact resolution.
• Customers can escalate unresolved complaints to bodies like the Croatian Mediation Association, Mediation Centre at the Croatian Chamber of Economy, or the EU’s Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platform (https://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr/main/).
• Nature of Complaints: No specific recurring themes (e.g., fraud, poor service, or security breaches) are highlighted in the provided data. General banking complaints may relate to transaction fees, loan terms, or online banking usability, but HPB’s high customer satisfaction rankings suggest these are not systemic.
• Analysis: The absence of prominent online complaints and the presence of an efficient ADR system indicate a relatively low complaint risk. However, users should monitor platforms like Trustpilot or local Croatian forums for real-time feedback, as my data may not capture recent developments.

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2. Risk Level Assessment ¶

• Institutional Stability: HPB is the largest Croatian-owned bank, ranking 5th in Croatia by total assets (EUR 7.046 billion in 2023) and is 77% state-owned, which enhances its stability.
• It is supervised by the European Central Bank (ECB) as a Significant Institution under European Banking Supervision, indicating rigorous oversight.
• In 2023, HPB reported a profit of EUR 80.62 million, with a 0.39% return on assets and 5.12% return on equity, reflecting financial health.
• Operational Risks: HPB’s focus on retail and business banking, including online services, exposes it to cyber risks typical of digital banking (e.g., phishing, data breaches). However, no major incidents are noted in the provided data.
• Risk Rating: Low to Moderate. HPB’s state backing, ECB supervision, and financial performance suggest low institutional risk. Cyber risks are moderate, consistent with industry standards, but mitigated by security measures (see Website Security Tools below).

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3. Website Security Tools ¶

• Official Website: https://www.hpb.hr/en/about-us/110
• Security Features:
• HTTPS and SSL/TLS: The website uses HTTPS, indicating SSL/TLS encryption to secure data transmission. This is standard for banking websites.
• Cookies: HPB’s website uses cookies for functionality and enhanced security, with options for users to accept or customize settings.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): HPB’s online banking platform requires a token or mToken for authentication, adding a layer of security beyond passwords.
• Security Advisories: HPB provides guidelines for safe card usage (e.g., at ATMs, in stores, and online), indicating proactive user education.
• Vulnerabilities: No specific vulnerabilities (e.g., outdated SSL certificates or reported breaches) are mentioned in the provided data. However, users should verify the website’s SSL certificate issuer and validity using tools like Qualys SSL Labs.
• Analysis: HPB’s website employs industry-standard security measures, including encryption, 2FA, and user education. No red flags are evident, but continuous monitoring for vulnerabilities is recommended, as banking websites are prime targets for cyberattacks.

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4. WHOIS Lookup ¶

• Domain: hpb.hr
• WHOIS Data: WHOIS lookup for hpb.hr is not explicitly provided in the references, but key observations can be inferred:
• Registrant: Likely Hrvatska poštanska banka d.d., given the domain’s alignment with the bank’s branding andArizona.
• Registration Date: The domain has been in use since at least 1991, consistent with HPB’s establishment, suggesting long-term ownership.
• Privacy Protection: Many organizations use WHOIS privacy services, but as a regulated bank, HPB’s ownership is publicly verifiable via its official documentation and regulatory filings.
• Analysis: The domain hpb.hr is legitimately associated with HPB, with no indication of domain hijacking or suspicious registration. Users can confirm ownership via WHOIS tools like ICANN or local Croatian registrars (e.g., CARNet).

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5. IP and Hosting Analysis ¶

• IP Address: Specific IP details for hpb.hr are not provided in the references, but the website is hosted by a professional infrastructure suitable for a major bank.
• Hosting Provider: Likely a reputable Croatian or EU-based provider, given HPB’s regulatory requirements and market presence. Common providers in the region include Hrvatski Telekom or global CDNs like Cloudflare.
• Server Security: Banking websites typically use dedicated servers or cloud solutions with firewalls, DDoS protection, and intrusion detection systems. HPB’s ECB supervision ensures compliance with EU cybersecurity standards (e.g., GDPR, NIS Directive).
• Analysis: Hosting is likely secure and compliant with EU regulations. Users can verify server integrity using tools like Shodan or Censys, but no issues are flagged in the provided data.

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6. Social Media Presence ¶

• Profiles: HPB maintains active social media profiles, including Facebook, where it engages with younger audiences through its “Financial Advisor” persona, offering financial tips and promoting services.
• Posts are targeted to specific audiences, achieving significant follower growth (e.g., 1,018 new followers in one month).
• Content Quality: Content is professional, educational, and aligned with banking services, avoiding sensationalism or misleading claims.
• Risks: Social media accounts are potential vectors for phishing or impersonation. Users should verify account authenticity (e.g., official handles linked from hpb.hr) to avoid scams.
• Analysis: HPB’s social media presence is well-managed and supports its brand. No red flags are noted, but users should remain cautious of fake accounts mimicking HPB.

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7. Red Flags and Potential Risk Indicators ¶

• Red Flags:
• Domain Confusion: The domain hrvatska-posta.com (not affiliated with HPB) is flagged as potentially suspicious due to hidden WHOIS data, suggesting possible scam activity. This is unrelated to hpb.hr but highlights the risk of brand confusion.
• Phishing Risks: Banking websites are common targets for phishing. HPB’s user education efforts mitigate this, but vigilance is required.
• No Major Breaches: No data breaches or fraud scandals are reported in the provided references, unlike some global banks.
• Potential Risks:
• Brand Impersonation: Scammers may create fake websites or emails mimicking HPB. Users should always verify URLs and avoid unsolicited links.
• Third-Party Risks: HPB’s partnerships (e.g., with Hrvatska pošta for transaction points) could introduce risks if third-party systems are less secure.
• Analysis: No significant red flags are associated with HPB itself. The primary risks stem from external impersonation or phishing, common in the banking sector.

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8. Website Content Analysis ¶

• Content Quality: The website (hpb.hr) provides clear, professional content about HPB’s services, including accounts, loans, cards, and online banking.
• Information is transparent, with contact details, regulatory identifiers (e.g., LEI: 529900D5G4V6THXC5P79, SWIFT: HPBZHR2X), and dispute resolution options.
• Accessibility: The site supports multiple languages (e.g., English, Croatian) and is optimized for mobile and desktop use.
• Misleading Claims: No evidence of exaggerated or deceptive marketing. Rates for deposits (e.g., 1.4% for 12-month EUR deposits) are clearly stated and competitive.
• Analysis: The website is professional, transparent, and user-friendly, aligning with regulatory expectations for a major bank. No content-related risks are identified.

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9. Regulatory Status ¶

• Supervision:
• Hrvatska Narodna Banka (HNB): HPB is authorized and supervised by Croatia’s central bank.
• European Central Bank (ECB): As a Significant Institution since 2020, HPB is directly supervised by the ECB, ensuring compliance with EU banking standards (e.g., CRD IV, CRR).
• European Banking Authority (EBA): HPB adheres to EBA’s harmonized rules, including stress testing and risk assessments.
• Deposit Guarantee: Deposits up to EUR 100,000 per depositor are protected by Croatia’s Deposit Guarantee Scheme, managed by the State Agency for Deposit Insurance and Bank Resolution (DAB).
• Compliance: HPB’s participation in the UN Global Compact and its 2019 award as Croatia’s best commercial bank reflect strong governance.
• Analysis: HPB’s regulatory status is robust, with oversight from national and EU authorities. This minimizes risks of non-compliance or insolvency.

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10. User Precautions ¶

• Verification: Always access HPB’s website via the official URL (https://www.hpb.hr) and avoid clicking links from unsolicited emails or messages.
• Security Practices:
• Enable 2FA (mToken) for online banking.
• Use strong, unique passwords and avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions.
• Regularly monitor account activity and report suspicious transactions to HPB’s contact center (0800 472 472).
• Phishing Awareness: Be cautious of emails or websites mimicking HPB. Verify URLs and contact HPB directly if unsure.
• Software Updates: Keep devices updated with the latest antivirus and browser patches to prevent malware.
• Education: Review HPB’s security tips for card and online banking usage.
• Analysis: Standard banking precautions apply. HPB’s security infrastructure supports safe usage, but user diligence is critical to avoid phishing or fraud.

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11. Potential Brand Confusion ¶

• Similar Entities:
• Hrvatska pošta: The Croatian postal service, which founded HPB, may cause confusion due to shared branding history. However, Hrvatska pošta is a separate entity focused on postal services, not banking.
• Banka Poštanska štedionica: A Serbian bank with a similar name (“Postal Savings Bank”) but no relation to HPB. Its website (posted.co.rs) is distinct, reducing confusion for Croatian users.
• Fake Domains: Domains like hrvatska-posta.com may impersonate HPB or Hrvatska pošta, posing scam risks.
• Mitigation: HPB’s clear branding (hpb.hr, official logos) and regulatory transparency minimize confusion. Users should verify website authenticity and avoid unofficial sources.
• Analysis: Brand confusion is a minor risk, primarily from unrelated or fraudulent entities. HPB’s distinct online presence and regulatory status help clarify its identity.

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Summary ¶

• Overall Risk Level: Low. HPB is a reputable, state-backed bank with strong regulatory oversight, robust website security, and an efficient complaint resolution system. Risks are primarily external (phishing, brand impersonation) rather than institutional.
• Key Strengths:
• ECB and HNB supervision ensures compliance and stability.
• Industry-standard website security (HTTPS, 2FA, cookies).
• Transparent content and proactive user education.
• Financial health and deposit protection up to EUR 100,000.
• Key Risks:
• Potential for phishing or fake websites mimicking HPB.
• Minor brand confusion with Hrvatska pošta or unrelated banks.
• General cyber risks inherent to online banking.
• Recommendations:
• Verify website URLs and use official contact channels.
• Enable 2FA and follow HPB’s security guidelines.
• Monitor accounts and report issues promptly.
• Use tools like SSL Labs or WHOIS to independently verify website integrity. This analysis is based on the provided references and general knowledge of banking practices as of April 23, 2025. For real-time complaint data or specific security concerns, users should consult HPB’s official channels or regulatory bodies like the HNB or ECB.