USAA Teams With VeriSign to Deploy Improved Mobile Log-on

Instead of a three-step process of submitting username, password and PIN, members can now access their accounts through a secure four-digit PIN, making the log-on process simpler and safer, according to USAA.

In collaboration with Mountain View, Calif.-based VeriSign, USAA has deployed new quick log-on and authentication software to give what the San Antonio-based financial services provider calls simultaneously faster and more secure mobile access to their banking, insurance and investment accounts.

Instead of a three-step process of submitting username, password and PIN, USAA members can now access their accounts through a secure four-digit PIN, making the log-on process simpler and safer, according to a USAA news release. Qualified USAA members can download the updated application with quick log-on at the Apple iTunes store or just update their current USAA Mobile App, according to the release. Availability of the quick log-on service is planned in April for Android phones. BlackBerry users can expect the enhanced USAA Mobile App soon thereafter, according to USAA.

"We're committed to providing products and services that make our members' lives easier," comments Wayne Peacock, executive vice president, member experience, USAA. "With quick log-on, all you need is a PIN and you're in " it's fast and simple. USAA and VeriSign developed this product to provide members easy access along with the security our members expect from USAA."

Almost 1.3 million of USAA's 7.4 million members — nearly 17 percent — access USAA's mobile platforms to conduct financial transactions, according to the USAA release.

The USAA Mobile App is fortified with VeriSign Identity Protection Service (VIP), the leading cloud-based authentication service, which enables both easy and secure online access, USAA says. The USAA news release asserts that the added protection of VIP is simple and effective because a strong authentication credential is embedded in the mobile application that enables USAA to seamlessly identify trusted mobile devices.

In combination with this VIP credential, users can simply enter their PIN, thus achieving stronger two-factor authentication (PIN and known device) to access their USAA accounts. From the user's standpoint, mobile access is made simpler, while VeriSign's embedded VIP security reduces risk against fraud, USAA says.

"VeriSign is excited to be working with USAA in enhancing its leadership as a mobile banking and financial services pioneer," says Kerry Loftus, vice president, user authentication, VeriSign. "With VIP, USAA is streamlining a secure and simple mobile experience to further bolster its members' exceptional mobile experiences."

Anthony O'Donnell has covered technology in the insurance industry since 2000, when he joined the editorial staff of Insurance & Technology. As an editor and reporter for I&T and the InformationWeek Financial Services of TechWeb he has written on all areas of information ... View Full Bio