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...There should be a way to provide the second level of security via a landline as well as a cell phone...
I agree. If SSA doesnt want to use a landline (for whatever reason) it could ask 5-6 security questions in advance -- just like it does if you forget your password.
The second factor identification is needed. But why does the goverment feel we all need a text cell phone? Seems like they could have more than one option, like an email address or maybe a phone call with a voice message on the other end giving you the code. I think I have one vendor that offers this option.
Maybe I missed it and we are all getting "free" cell phones if we have not already gotten them from the goverment.
For all those people who gave up their landline and only use a cell phone - I am sure they would be just as upset about this if they were told they must have a landline to get their security code.
For the life of me I can't imagine why the government is implementing this with just 3 days notice and never gave any thought to providing an alternative to people who do not own a cell phone.
I just tried to access my account before they shut down access on Saturday to make the changes - the site is not available at present message appears.
I am not against a second line of security - just the requirement that it is only available to those who have a cell phone. A government site should not require you to spend hundreds of dollars on a cell phone every year to be able to access a government site.
I applaud the SSA for requiring a higher level of security. In my opinion all critical accounts (SSA, banks, brokerages etc.) should require 2 factor identification. This service isn't new for the SSA, I've had it enabled on my account for years but they are now requiring it.
What I don't understand is why they require texts only for 2 factor. My credit union has the same requirement but gives you the option receive an automated call with the security code spoken for those without cells phones. Of course I don't understand why anybody would still pay for a land line when you can pick up a basic text enabled phone or gently used smart phone for cheap and pay $15/month for unlimited talk and texts.
Because that would defeat the entire purpose of the two-step authentication process.
The whole point is to require two different means of communication to authenticate your account. If your computer security has been compromised by a keystroke logger or by some other means, then SSA emailing you a code obviously wouldn't be adding an additional level of security.
What SSA is doing makes perfect sense and should have been done a long time ago. I can't believe that people are actually looking to complain about a Government agency adding another level of security to protect their account.
Exactly!
And from the email:
If you are unable or choose not to use my Social Security, there are other ways you can contact us. To learn more, please review the Frequently Asked Questions found here.
It is the requirement to have only one method to obtain that second level of security for a government web site that would cost me several hundred dollars a year I object to.
Perfectly understandable. I will never give up my landline. Generally hate cell phones and rarely use mine.
For safety reasons, however, I've always had one. Mine is prepaid cell phone w/text & photo ability from USCellular - which I've had since 2008 - $6.44/mo. + tax - automatically charged to a credit card. USCell sent me a free Samsung flip phone, minutes are 14c and NEVER expire. I've added minutes online in $5/$10/$20 increments a few times over the years, replaced the battery a couple of times ($5), but never leave house w/o the phone, just in case. Especially good to have when traveling.
Because that would defeat the entire purpose of the two-step authentication process.
The whole point is to require two different means of communication to authenticate your account. If your computer security has been compromised by a keystroke logger or by some other means, then SSA emailing you a code obviously wouldn't be adding an additional level of security.
What SSA is doing makes perfect sense and should have been done a long time ago. I can't believe that people are actually looking to complain about a Government agency adding another level of security to protect their account.
If you want an extra level of security, it should be an option, not a mandate. This is what happens when government becomes unresponsive to the wishes and needs of the people and just dictates a solution for a problem that really doesn't exist.
The fact that when I want to access my SSA acct from my computer.
I have to put in my username/password (find password), then find my cell phone and wait for a text for a pin # and then go back to my computer to put in a pin is totally wrong.
I suspect this will accomplish 2 things, yes, makes access more secure.
and yes, less and less people will use online access.
to much trouble to get into your acct.
I have enough trouble just keeping a up to date list of passwords for online whatever.
Just pick up phone and call or walk in
It should be optional for those concerned with security not mandatory.
I have to do this with other accounts and the code is sent in a few seconds
The fact that when I want to access my SSA acct from my computer.
I have to put in my username/password (find password), then find my cell phone and wait for a text for a pin # and then go back to my computer to put in a pin is totally wrong.
Maybe put the phone in your pocket?
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