As digital payments become more popular than ever, it's important to do all that you can to protect your bank accounts. From securing your digital wallets to watching for suspicious activity, there are several steps you can take to strengthen your account security and keep your finances safe from fraudsters. One of those steps is to enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on your online banking apps. This extra layer of security can make a big difference in keeping your accounts safe from fraudsters.
Let's dive into what 2FA is and how you can set it up.
What is Two-Factor Authentication?
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security feature that requires you to provide two forms of identification before being able to access your account. This usually involves entering your password and a verification code that is sent to your mobile device or an authenticator app. By adding this extra step, you make it much harder for fraudsters to gain access to your accounts, even if they manage to get hold of your password.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security feature that requires you to provide two forms of identification before being able to access your account. This usually involves entering your password and a verification code that is sent to your mobile device or an authenticator app. By adding this extra step, you make it much harder for fraudsters to gain access to your accounts, even if they manage to get hold of your password.
How to Secure Your Accounts with Two-Factor Authentication
Setting up 2FA is simple and can be done in just a few steps. Here's how you can enable this feature for your digital payment accounts. Most apps, including Washington Trust Bank’s WTB Online and Business Digital Banking apps, provide this security feature. The steps may vary slightly depending on the app you are using, but in general, here’s what to look for:
- Visit the Security Settings: Go to the security settings of your digital payment account. Look for the option to enable Two-Factor Authentication or 2-step verification.
- Choose Your Verification Method: You can choose to receive verification codes via text message, email, or an authenticator app. Select the method that works best for you.
- Follow the Prompts: Follow the on-screen prompts to set up 2FA. This usually involves linking your mobile device or email address for verification codes.
- Verify Your Identity: Once you've set up 2FA, you'll need to verify your identity by entering the verification code sent to your chosen method.
Once Two-Factor Authentication is enabled, you’ll be prompted to enter a code that was sent to you via the method you chose. This second layer of security is one of the best ways to protect yourself from fraud.
Protect the Big Three
For more in-depth tips and resources on fraud prevention, visit our personal security fraud prevention page and remember to protect the big three: your personal data, your credit score, and your personal computer.
If you have specific questions or need additional help with fraud prevention topics, give our Priority Service team a call at 1.800.788.4578