Authentication

Strong passwords help to protect your accounts, but they're not always enough to keep out attackers. So we've got extra layers of security to double-check that it's you logging in or making a transaction in internet banking or our mobile app, like multi-factor authentication (MFA).

What's multi-factor authentication (MFA)?

MFA means there are three elements you can use to verify your identity:

Using a combination of two or more of these things adds more security. Even if someone gets hold of one piece of information, like your password, it's harder for them to access your account without the extra security measures.

Our mobile app and internet banking keep your data safe with various security features, including your login details, a security code and biometric login (like your fingerprint or face).

Biometric login Security code SMS one-time codes

Biometric login

What's a biometric login?

With biometric authentication, your unique biological traits, such as your fingerprint or face, are used to confirm it's you accessing your account. It's like unlocking your phone with your fingerprint or face but for your bank account.

We highly recommend keeping this feature enabled if your device supports it. Depending on your device, you can use Touch ID, Face ID or fingerprint to log in securely.

Apple Pay and Google Pay users

You'll need to set up a biometric login, and a security code to use Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Things to note

  • Don't activate biometric login for your accounts if someone else has their face or fingerprint registered on your device.
  • If the biometrics stored on your device are changed, we'll automatically disable your biometrics on your account. You can turn it on again by following the steps.

What are the benefits?

  1. 1
    Tahi

    No password to remember

    Log in to your accounts with a quick scan of your face or fingerprint.

  2. 2
    Rua

    Enhanced security

    Your unique traits keep your accounts safe, and are more secure than traditional passwords.

  3. 3
    Toru

    Quick and easy log in

    Scanning your face or fingerprint is faster than entering a password.

  4. 4
    Whā

    Added privacy protection

    Your data stays secure and private making it harder for anyone to hack your accounts.

  5. 5
    Rima

    Unique to you

    Your biometric login can't be replicated, whereas passwords can.

  6. 6
    Ono

    Works across your devices

    Your biometric login works across your devices for a seamless online banking experience.

Set up your biometric login

Security code

What's a security code?

A security code is a four-digit pin you choose, that you can set up at any time in our mobile app. Shorter and easier to remember than a traditional password, a security code is an extra layer of security that can help make your online banking experience safer.

What are the benefits?

  1. 1
    Tahi

    Enhanced security

    Security codes offer stronger protection than traditional passwords.

  2. 2
    Rua

    Simplify your login

    Security codes are shorter than passwords and easier to remember.

  3. 3
    Toru

    Prevent unauthorised access

    If someone gains access to your phone, they'll be blocked by your security code if they try to open our mobile app.

  4. 4
    Whā

    Extra time to act

    If your phone is lost or stolen, a security code is an immediate barrier to your accounts to give you time to contact us.

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    Rima

    Added online protection

    Security codes add an extra layer of defense against potential cyber threats.

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    Ono

    Peace of mind

    Adding a security code helps to ensure that your accounts are better protected.

Set up your security code

SMS one-time codes

How do they work?

Some actions in our mobile app or internet banking require extra security, such as updating your details or sending money to a new person or payee. To ensure that it's you making the payments or changes, a unique code is sent by text message to your registered New Zealand mobile number. You then enter the code in our mobile app or internet banking to complete the transaction.

How do I start using SMS one-time codes?

If we've verified your New Zealand mobile number, you don't need to do anything else — you're good to go. If you haven't yet verified your mobile number, head to our mobile app or internet banking to get that sorted.

Manage your SMS one-time code

Ways to authenticate your online banking

Guide

Set up your security code
Guide

Enable biometric login
Guide

Receive SMS one-time codes
Guide

Set up KeepSafe

Tips to keep your digital banking secure

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    Tahi

    Never give anyone your security code or write it down. Remember, we'll also never ask you to tell us (or anyone else) your password.

  2. 2
    Rua

    Enable biometric login (fingerprint, touch ID or face ID) on your mobile device.

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    Toru

    Always log out of internet banking and our mobile app when you’re finished.

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    Whā

    When possible, use mobile data instead of public Wi-Fi while using online banking.

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    Rima

    Keep your contact details current, especially your mobile number. You can easily update them in our mobile app or internet banking.

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    Ono

    Look out for in-app notifications from us on new ways to protect yourself online.

Report suspicious activity

If you think your identity or accounts may have been compromised, please contact us immediately.

We'll never ask you to disclose your internet banking login details by email or by clicking on a link within an email. If you think you’ve been sent an email that doesn’t look like it’s from us, don't respond or click on any links – please forward it to suspicious.email@kiwibank.co.nz.