What is Multi-Factor Authentication? Why is it Important?

As technology advances, so does the risk of being a victim of fraud. This is why Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is critical in the banking industry. MFA is a security feature that provides an extra layer of protection to your online accounts.

Multi-Factor Authentication verifies the user’s identity through multiple authentication methods, such as a password, security token, or biometric scanner. This is an extra security step to make sure it’s you who is accessing the account. The first authentication factor is usually something you know, such as a password. The second authentication factor is something you have like a token, card, or cell phone. The third factor is something you are, like fingerprints, facial recognition, or voice recognition. With MFA, if one factor is breached, the perpetrator still needs one or two more factors to access your account.

We use MFA to secure our platforms and safeguard our member’s information and accounts. MFA is a powerful tool to protect you from fraud, identity theft, and unauthorized access to your accounts. Ensure MFA is set up and enabled on all your accounts for optimal protection.

To Set Up Multi-Factor Authentication in Online Banking:

1. Login to ACU Online Banking
2. Click on “Settings” in the Menu
3. Click “Additional Services”
4. Click “Challenge Question Each Login” or “One-Time PIN Authentication” depending on your preference
5. Click the gray toggle button to the “on” position (it will display green if active)
6. Click “Save Changes”

To Set Up Multi-Factor Authentication in the ACU Mobile App

1. Login to the ACU Mobile App
2. Click the Menu Icon in the top left corner to open the App Menu
3. Click “Additional Services”
4. Click “Challenge Question Each Login” or “One-Time PIN Authentication” depending on your preference
5. Click the gray toggle button to the “on” position (it will display green if active)
6. Click “Save Changes”

To Set Up Biometrics in the ACU Mobile App

1. Login to the ACU Mobile App
2. Click the Menu Icon in the top left corner to open the App Menu
3. Click “Settings”
4. Click the gray toggle button, next to “Biometric Authorization,” to the “on” position (it will appear green if active)

The protection of your accounts and personal information is essential in this day and age. Multi-Factor Authentication provides an extra layer of security that is critical in preventing fraud and keeping our data and accounts secure. Contact us if you have any questions on how to activate, or to learn more about MFA and how to secure your online accounts.