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SMS Security and Alerts

SMS Security, also known as two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an additional layer of security when using Internet Banking or the Bank First app.

SMS Security

SMS Security, also known as two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an additional layer of security when using Internet Banking or the Bank First app. An SMS One Time Password is sent to your mobile phone when completing various Internet Banking activities.

  • You’ll get an SMS one-time password when you are:

    • Resetting your password

    • Adding a new Payee

    • Adding a new Biller

    • Updating a scheduled transfer or payment

    • Creating or managing your PayID

    • Updating your card PIN

    • Updating your contact details

     

  • You will automatically be registered for SMS Security when you set up Internet Banking.

    Alternatively, contact us for a friendly Member Service Consultant to help you register for SMS Security.

  • Once you have registered, Bank First will send an SMS One Time Password to your mobile phone when you initiate the above activities. Simply enter the one time password to complete your activity.

  • The SMS One Time Password will expire if you close or cancel the activity (e.g. cancel out of making a payment) or your Internet Banking session times out.

    The SMS One Time Password can only be used for only one authentication process, so if you are completing multiple actions you may require multiple passwords. This password will not be accepted on second or following attempts.

  • No. Bank First provides this service free of charge. You should check with your mobile phone provider to confirm whether or not you would be charged for receiving SMS, particularly when overseas.

  • No. SMS security is not compulsory for Members, however Bank First recommends SMS Security for all Internet Banking users.

    SMS Security will provide you with stronger authentication and more peace of mind. If you choose not to have SMS Security, you will be issued a funds transfer password.

  • Yes. Contact us to change your mobile number or you can update it yourself via Internet Banking if both the new and existing mobile numbers are active.

  • No. Members can register only one mobile phone number for all SMS Services.

  • Yes. You will still be able to use SMS security, however we would recommend you to contact us to discuss alternative security options.

  • No. You will not be able to receive a SMS One Time Password when using an international mobile number.

    You can receive an SMS while overseas if your handset and SIM card allow global roaming and the country you are in operates via a compatible network. Please check with your mobile phone provider.

What should I do if I have trouble using SMS Security?

Below are some common issues that you may face and steps you can take.

  • You can contact us and we can talk your through alternative options.

  • It may be that somebody else is attempting to access your Internet Banking. You should contact us immediately.

     

  • If you haven't received confirmation by SMS after 2-3 minutes, please contact us.

SMS and Email Alerts

SMS and Email Alerts easily allow you to monitor your accounts 24/7. You can request specific information on account balances, deposits and withdrawals to be sent to you automatically via SMS and email.

  • Choose from the following alerts:

    Balances

    • Savings or Investment account balance is below or above a nominated balance

    • Loan or Overdraft account balance is below or above a nominated balance

    • A Credit or Deposit transaction is more than nominated amount

    • A Debit or Withdrawal transaction is more than the nominated amount

    Overdue Payments

    • A Loan Repayment is overdue

    • Credit Card payment is overdue

    Payment Notifications 

    • A change in Daily Debit Limit

    • A Direct Debit was made

    • A Pension or Government Agency deposit

    • A payroll deposit

    • An unsuccessful Future Dated Payment

    • Payment due date for a Credit Card/Overdraft account

    • Notification of a change in loan repayment amount

    Account Updates

    • An upcoming maturing Term Deposit

    • A change in cash advance rate on a Credit Card account

     

    1. Login to Internet Banking

    2. Select Services

    3. Select Alerts

    4. Select a default account

    5. Click submit

     

    1. Login to Internet Banking

    2. Select Services

    3. Select Alerts

    4. Click New Alert

    5. Select your account, e.g. '11111S1 - John Person'

    6. Choose type of Alert

    7. Click Next

    8. Tick the appropriate Alert Detail

    9. Select your contact method (Email or SMS)

    10. Click Save

     

    • SMS Alerts are $0.25 per SMS

    • Email alerts are free

     

  • Yes, you must activate SMS Security in order to use SMS Alerts. SMS Alerts is an optional service.

     

  • Yes. You can modify or cancel your Alerts at any time through Internet Banking.

    1. Login to Internet Banking

    2. Select Services

    3. Select Alerts

    4. Select your existing Alert

    5. Alter the appropriate Alert Detail

    6. Select your contact method (Email or SMS)

    7. Click Save

     

  • Yes. You can send and receive SMS whilst overseas if your handset and SIM card allow global roaming and the country you are in operates via a compatible network. Please check with your mobile phone provider.

  • No. SMS Services must be requested and received by the mobile phone that is registered for your Internet Banking profile.