Transaction Authentication
Learn when and why you need to authenticate certain transactions, what types of verification methods are used, and how this protects your account.
- What is transaction authentication?
- When is the authentication required?
- What happens if I don't authenticate?
- Is authentication time-consuming?
What is Transaction Authentication?
Authentication is a security measure that verifies you're the legitimate account holder before processing certain transactions. It's like showing ID when making a large purchase - it protects both you and your bank from fraud.
When is the authentication required?
You'll typically need to authenticate for:
High-Value Transactions:
- Large fund transfers
- Significant online purchases
- International payments
High-Risk Activities:
- Unusual spending patterns
- Transactions from new devices or locations
- Changes to account settings
Routine transactions like small purchases or regular bill payments usually don't require extra verification.
What happens if I don't authenticate?
If you don't complete the authentication process:
- Transaction gets declined
- May be flagged as suspicious activity
- Account might be temporarily restricted for security
This isn't a penalty - it's protection against unauthorized access to your money.
Is authentication time-consuming?
Authentication processes are designed to be quick and efficient. Most often, it only takes a few seconds to complete, and it adds an extra layer of security to your transactions.