Online Banking
Home > About Us > News > Multi­-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi­-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Empower Federal Credit Union’s Online Banking now requires MFA for online banking users as a security measure to further protect your account. This extra layer of security will require you to complete some extra verification steps before the transaction will process. We will ask you to verify your identity by asking security questions or by responding to a message sent via email or text.

Q. Why is Multi-Factor Authentication necessary?

A. Security provided by a single password may be defeated with new technology being employed by high-tech hackers of today. In response, enhanced security precautions have been implemented to increase online safety and make accounts more secure while preventing spoofing attempts by look-alike websites. Multi-factor Authentication triggered by certain transactions further increases the protection of the account.

Q. What are the Multi-Factor Triggers?

MFA will be triggered for a variety of transactions, such as adding an ACH/ external account, as well as other trigger events. Trigger events include:  

  • Adding an ACH Account (External Account – see below) for the first time.
  • Logging in from a different device
  • Changing Contact Information
  • Updating Security Information
  • Transfers involving a Linked Account
  • Transfers involving an External Account
  • Adding an External Account

Q. What is an External Transfer/ External Account?  (COMING SOON)

A. Empower members can transfer funds to and from accounts that are held at other financial institutions. External transfer makes it easy and secure (options include: one-time or recurring transfers). You may add external accounts on the Classic Transfer tab.  

Q. How many attempts do I get?

A. If a user fails MFA 5 times they will be locked out of Online Banking.  
 

You may select the MFA options that best meets your needs:  

  • Sending an authentication code via email

  • Sending an authentication code via SMS/ Text (cell phone # must be confirmed for codes to be sent via text)

  • Answering Security Questions (default setting)MFA options can be found on the Security tab (under settings) in Online Banking. At least one option must be enabled.


Where do I find the MFA Settings?

MFA options can be found on the Security tab (under settings) in Online Banking. At least one option must be enabled.

Screenshot of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) setup in the security tab in online banking

The Settings – Security tab is currently only available in the desktop/tablet environment. This set-up is not available on the mobile app.

What do you want out of life?

Empower Federal Credit Union welcomes employees of many companies, immediate family/household members of employees and retirees, as well as our outreach to underserved communities to enjoy personal and business banking solutions including auto loans, mortgages*, credit cards and more. Bank online, in any central NY branch, or call us at 315.477.2200.

* Home mortgages available in FL, PA, CT, NY and NC.