One simple step to help keep your digital life secure

It’s true, cybersecurity rules change a lot. There are differing views of best practices and a slew of outdated information. But cybersecurity experts do agree on one thing — multifactor authentication. It’s considered the easiest and most effective way to boost your digital security. Even if someone gets your password, they won’t be able to get past the extra layer of defense that MFA provides in the vast majority of cases.  

Here’s what you need to know.  

What is multifactor authentication?  

Imagine all of your personal info as being secured behind a door. Well, MFAs are the satisfying click as the lock snaps into place. The final layer of an iron-clad security measure. Let’s take a closer look at what defines MFA.  

MFA must contain at least two of the following:  

• Something you know: your password or PIN  
• Something you have: your phone, verification code or an authentication app  
• Something you are: your fingerprint, face scan or other biometric  

Combining two or more of these is all it takes for MFA to be enabled for your digital accounts. One of our favorite MFA methods is using an authentication app. They offer convenience and come equipped with extra features designed to strengthen security.  

Not all MFA options are equal  

Implementing any form of multifactor authentication is significantly preferable to having no authentication measures in place. However, certain MFA options are superior.  

Good: Although verification codes sent by text or email offer convenience, they may still be vulnerable to interception.  

Better: Authentication apps generate verification codes, prompting you to confirm login. Since this takes place directly on your device, it is much more difficult for an attacker to get their hands on it.  

Best: Biometric authentication methods, like facial ID or fingerprint scanning, offer the highest level of security since they are based on physical traits unique to you.  

What makes MFA so important for OCCU members?  

It is easy to see why financial accounts are among the top targets for attacks. That’s where the money is, and threat actors would like nothing more than to help themselves to it. The good news is that OCCU offers the choice to enable MFA for your MyOCCU Online & Mobile banking account. Our system will send account alerts if we suspect suspicious activity. And members have the option of manually setting their own unique account alerts as well. If you have not already taken advantage of enhancing your account security by enabling MFA, we highly encourage doing so now.  

How to enable multifactor authentication for MyOCCU Online & Mobile banking  

Enabling MFA for your MyOCCU Online & Mobile banking account couldn’t be easier. Let’s get that digital deadbolt locked to make sure we are doing everything possible to keep fraudsters out.  

Click the link below for step-by-step instructions to enable MFA:  

Manage your security settings | OCCU  

Enable multifactor and biometric authentication everywhere possible. Stay safe and secure online.  

If you need assistance or have any questions about MFA, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can get in touch via phone by calling our Member Contact Center at 1.800.365.1111, visit your local OCCU branch, or send us a secure message from our Message Center within MyOCCU Online & Mobile banking.