Multi-Factor Authentication

Frequently Asked Questions

We're enhancing our online banking security!

Gulf Credit Union takes protecting the privacy and security of member information very seriously, as demonstrated by our continual effort to provide the most up-to-date security features for our members. That is why we are implementing an additional security feature to Home Banking. This new type of security, called Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), will be coming soon, as required by regulatory agencies for all financial institutions.

What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Security?

MFA security is designed to further protect online banking members from the growing number of Internet security threats. MFA adds another layer of security to the log in process, helping to keep your account information secure, protecting you from fraud and identity theft, and providing you with additional peace of mind when banking online. This is done by requiring additional verification during your online banking log in process.

How does it work?

Currently, you log into Home Banking by entering your Member Number and confidential password. This allows us to verify that an authorized person is accessing your account. With the addition of MFA security, your log in process will include a new step to ensure that you are logging into our secure Home Banking site, and not an "imposter" site. This is done by displaying a member chosen security image that is unique to your account, which you will select during your MFA security enrollment process coming soon.

Do I have to use MFA Security?

Yes. For your protection, Gulf Credit Union is automatically adding this new security feature to your account, and you will simply need to complete the individually customized enrollment process.

Do I need additional software to use MFA Security?

No. Using the new MFA security feature does not require additional hardware or software for your computer. All of the identification and verification takes place behind the scenes - creating a seamless transition and a new, safer log in process.

Does MFA Security cost anything?

No. MFA security is a new security feature that Gulf Credit Union is providing for all members at no additional charge.

Besides MFA Security, will there be additional changes to my Online Banking Account?

No. All of your existing Home Banking features and settings will remain the same.

Can I use the same security image as my password?

No. Using the same password as your chosen security image compromises the security of the password, therefore diminishing the second layer of protection associated with MFA.

If someone steals my password, will the system prevent them from accessing my account from a different computer?

Yes. If an unauthorized person tries to log in to the Gulf Credit Union member's account from another computer, they will be asked one of the member's chosen challenge questions. Without this additional personal information they will not be able to access your account.

What keeps someone from stealing my chosen phrase?

The chosen image and phrase automatically appear only if you sign in from a computer already recognized as yours. If you're signing in from a different computer, you will be asked one of your challenge questions before your image is shown.

How do I know I've reached Gulf Credit Union's valid Home Banking site?

Your chosen phrase will appear, confirming that you are at the Credit Unions's legitimate web site.

How does the Credit Union know that I'm logging in from my own computer?

When you enroll, the system uses cookie technology to identify your computer. Each time you log in, our software identifies your computer, the IP address and other unique identifiers. The cookie is secure and does not contain any personal information. Note: If using Mozilla Firefox browser, please set to accept all cookies.

If I delete my cookies, will I have to register my computer again?

Yes. If cookies are deleted you will be prompted to answer one of your selected challenge questions.

Can I access Online Banking from multiple computers?

Yes. You can access Home Banking from any number of computers. When you sign in from a computer that you have not used for Home Banking before, you will be asked to answer one of your chosen challenge questions to verify your identity. At that time, you will select whether to register the computer or not.

If I share my computer with someone else who also uses Gulf Credit Union, can we both still log in?

Yes. There is no limit to how many people can sign in to Home Banking from the same computer. Remember to never share any personal identifying information. This includes your sign on member ID, password, or phrase.

Member Safety Tip: Gulf Credit Union will never contact you to ask for your passwords, challenge question answers, or any other confidential information.

Why use a Login Nickname?

The Login Nickname is an alternative to using your member number to gain access to your Credit Union account. This feature is for convenience and is optional.