General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsSocial Security rescinds required text message pin # for login to ssa.gov.
Very smart of them. Stupid to implement it without thought of the MILLIONS who use SSA and do NOT have cell phones and/or do not text.
On July 30, 2016, we began requiring you to sign into your my Social Security account using a one-time code sent via text message. We implemented this new layer of security, known as multifactor authentication, in compliance with a Presidential executive order to improve the security of consumer financial transactions. SSA implemented the improvements aggressively because we have a fundamental responsibility to protect the publics personal information.
However, multifactor authentication inconvenienced or restricted access to some of our account holders. Were listening to your concerns and are responding by temporarily rolling back this mandate.
As before July 30, you can now access your secure account using only your username and password. We highly recommend the extra security text message option, but it is not required. Were developing an alternative authentication option, besides text messaging, that well begin implementing within the next six months.
We strive to balance security and customer service options, and we want to ensure that our online services are both easy to use and secure. The my Social Security service has always featured a robust verification and authentication process, and it remains safe and secure.
We regret any inconvenience you may have experienced.
There is no requirement that you access your personal my Social Security account as a result of the steps we are taking. However, when you do access your account, we encourage you to sign up for the extra security text message option. You can access your account by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.
dixiegrrrrl
(60,010 posts)Millions of us do not have cell phones for various reasons.
anoNY42
(670 posts)but yeah, it screws people over to impose it on those with no cell phones.
With all of the griping about "Obamaphones" from the rw, it would be great if the feds trumpeted the Lifeline cellphone program as a way to make SS info more secure (by allowing multi-factor auth). I doubt the rw-ers could gripe about that with all the hacking in the news lately...
handmade34
(22,756 posts)the last time I had to check something... I guess my import is greater than I thought
LisaL
(44,973 posts)A large number of their client base don't text, yet you require text message to log in?
cyberswede
(26,117 posts)You can opt to receive a text with a code to enter, or opt for a phone call (to mobile or land line). A recorded message tells you to hang up if you were not expecting the call, otherwise press any button to continue authentication.