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Double up on security with Two-Step Authentication

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Online security is critical to your financial wellbeing and a top priority for Meridian. With online attacks growing in number and sophistication, it's more important than ever to have access control over your accounts. At Meridian, we provide security tools to help safeguard what’s yours. See how we’re using identity verification through Two-Step Authentication, also known as Two-Factor Authentication or 2FA to strengthen your secure login.

What is 2FA?

A simple process of identity verification, 2FA delivers access control through a second layer of sign-in security. It works like an additional lock on the door to your account. Unless you have a special code for your secure login – delivered to you alone – access will be denied.

How does it work?

When you enable 2FA, you will verify a trusted personal device, such as your mobile phone. You’ll be sent a One-Time Passcode (OTP) for identity verification. From there, you'll have access control over your accounts. 2FA will only be required when necessary, such as a login from an unknown device. To further strengthen your secure login, you can opt to use 2FA every time you access your account.

Why is 2FA so common?

This security measure has become a trusted tool for account access control. Here’s why:

Enhanced security

While attacks on usernames and passwords are on the rise, 2FA strengthens your secure login, making it more difficult for fraudsters to access your accounts. 2FA can help prevent phishing, cyber-attacks, identity theft and other types of fraud.

Convenience

Setup for 2FA is quick and easy. By simple verification of your identity through a personal device, you will boost access control and create a more secure login.

Peace of mind

Of course, one of the most important benefits of enabling 2FA is the confidence you’ll gain, knowing your online accounts have an extra layer of protection.

How to enable 2FA

On Meridian’s mobile app:

  1. Log into your Meridian account.
  2. Tap the Gear icon in the top left.
  3. Under ‘Security’, tap ‘Two-Step Authentication’.
  4. Follow the prompts to complete setup.

On your web browser:

  1. Log into your Meridian account.
  2. Click ‘Settings’ in the top right.
  3. Under ‘Profile Settings’, click the edit icon beside ‘Two-Step Authentication’.
  4. Follow the prompts to complete setup.

Questions or issues? Call Member Service at Meridian from 8:00 am - 12:00 am (EST): 1-866-592-2226.

More security tips

  • Meridian will never verbally ask you for your OTP. If someone asks you for this code for any reason, including identity verification, the request is fraudulent. Hang up and call Meridian to ensure access control over your account has not been compromised.
  • Use a different password for each online account. This protects your secure login on other accounts, in the event that one username and password combination is compromised at another location.
  • Always verify a web address, prior to clicking on a link.

Learn more about protecting yourself online

Protect yourself from phishing

How to create a strong password

Digital self-care: Stay safe with a cyber security checkup

Meridian Credit Union communications are intended for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial advice or an opinion on any issue. We would be pleased to provide additional details or advice about specific situations if desired.

For permission to republish this content, please contact the Meridian Credit Union Marketing Department at communications@meridiancu.ca. ©️ 2023 Meridian Credit Union