How two-factor authentication increases your account security

Maintaining strong account security is important to ensure your online accounts are as safe as possible from fraud and other suspicious activity. There are many ways to increase your account security, such as creating a strong password or signing up for fraud alerts. Utilizing multiple methods of increasing your security is wise, as you can never be too safe from online threats.

While many financial institutions have security measures that help monitor and detect suspicious behavior, ensuring you are using all available safety tools can go a long way in keeping your accounts safe. By setting up two-factor authentication (2FA), you will better secure your account from being accessed by anyone other than yourself.

While two-factor authentication is often optional, it effectively provides additional security with little hassle. Here is some information on what 2FA is, how it works and how to use it effectively to increase your online account security.

What is two-factor authentication?

Two-factor authentication, or multifactor authentication, adds an additional step after entering your username and password to help validate your identity. This second step helps protect your account if an unauthorized user obtains your login and password and uses it to gain access to your account. Instead of accessing your accounts right after your login information is accepted, you are prompted to enter a code sent to either your phone or an email address. The purpose of this is to provide a second way to verify your authentication by a second device a hacker wouldn't have access to.

How does two-factor authentication work at Alliant?

Two-factor authentication requires a second validation of your identity besides your login information. Once you opt-in and log into your Alliant account with the two-factor authentication turned on, your screen will prompt a six-digit authentication code you can find on your phone. To confirm your identity, enter the code, and then you can proceed to your account information.

If you don't have access to your phone, you can also receive the code via email. If you want this option, complete the email verification process via your personal information settings when you set up the two-factor authentication process explained below.

How to opt into Alliant's two-factor authentication

While two-factor authentication is not required for Alliant members, utilizing this feature is highly recommended and provides your account with additional security. To opt into this feature today, log into your Alliant account and click on Profile & Settings. Once there, go into Access & Security, click Protect Your Account with Two-Factor Authentication, and enter your Mobile Number. Once this is complete and you have agreed to the terms of service, you can rest assured your account is better secured.

Even if you believe you have a clever login and password combination, no account is 100% secure from hackers. Fraud and threats to your account security are real. While Alliant and many other financial institutions have excellent security measures in place, adding additional protection, such as two-factor authorization, creates another step to keeping your account safe from online threats.

Read more about how you can increase your account security    

• Cybersecurity steps you can take to protect yourself    
• Using alerts to improve the security of your accounts
• Protect the security of your debit and credit cards