As online banking becomes more popular, banks are looking for new and better ways to authenticate their customers. This can be a challenge, as different customers have different preferences. This post shares some of the most common authentication methods used by banks.
List of Online Banking Authentication Methods
Banking online is a convenient way to manage your finances, but it’s important to do so safely. There are several authentication methods that banks may use to verify your identity and protect your account information.
Two-Factor Authentication
One of the most common and effective authentication methods is two-factor authentication (2FA). With 2FA, you’re required to provide two pieces of information in order to log in to your account. This could be something like a password and a code that’s sent to your mobile phone. The idea is that even if someone manages to get hold of your password, they won’t be able to access your account without the second piece of information.
Multi-Factor Authentication
Another option is multi-factor authentication (MFA). With MFA, you’re required to provide more than two pieces of information to log in. This could be a combination of your password; a code sent to your mobile phone, and a fingerprint or iris scan. The more factors that are required, the more secure your account will be.
Single Sign-On
Another authentication method that’s becoming more common is single sign-on (SSO). With SSO, you use one set of login details to access multiple accounts. For example, you might use your Google account to log in to your bank account. This is convenient as you don’t have to remember multiple sets of login details, but it does mean that if someone manages to get hold of your Google account, they could gain access to your bank account too.
Biometrics
Biometrics is another way to verify your identity. This involves using a physical or behavioral characteristic that’s unique to you, such as your fingerprint, iris scan, or voice. Biometrics is more secure than using a password, as it’s much harder for someone to fake your fingerprint or iris scan than it is for them to guess your password.
Physical Tokens
This is a small device that you carry with you and use in conjunction with your login details. The token generates a code that changes every few seconds, so even if someone manages to get hold of your token, they won’t be able to use it to access your account unless they also have your login details.
So, there are a few different authentication methods that you may come across when banking online. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s worth considering which one would work best for you.
Concluding Thoughts
Online banking has become a staple in our society. It is more convenient and efficient to bank online than to go into a physical bank. With the number of people who use online banking, it is important that the authentication process is secure. As each method has its own benefits and drawbacks, we recommend gaining a deep understanding of each before choosing the one that is right for your business.