Protect Your Accounts with An Authenticator App

Published March 20, 2025 

Multifactor authentication, often called MFA, is a security feature that requires you to verify your identity in multiple ways before accessing an account. It is also referred to as two-factor authentication or two-step authentication. It adds another layer of protection and is a simple yet effective way to help keep hackers out of your accounts, even if they manage to get your password.
 

Why is it important?
 

Passwords alone can be stolen or guessed, especially if they are short, common-use words, and reused for multiple programs. MFA makes it significantly harder for cybercriminals to break into your accounts.
 

How does it work?
 

After entering your username and password, the system will then prompt you to provide a secondary identification method. The second step might involve:

• A prompt to an authenticator app like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, Authy or Duo (the most secure option)
• Sending a text or email with a one-time code
• Receiving a call with a one-time code

Authenticator apps, in particular, are the most secure because they generate codes directly on your device, without relying on a separate communication channel that may be vulnerable to interception.
 

How do I set this up for my Kinecta accounts?
 

Kinecta strongly encourages you to set up MFA for your online banking account, particularly using an authenticator app.

Follow these steps to set up yours:

1. Using your mobile phone’s app store (Google Play or the App Store), search and download an authenticator app, such as Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, Authy or Duo
2. Open the app and add an account following the steps provided
3. Next, on your computer, log into your online banking account
4. Select Tools and then Settings, and Security
5. Under Two-Factor Authentication, click the pencil icon next to 2FA App to enroll
6. Click Enroll and scan the QR code with the authenticator app or manually enter the code provided below the QR code
7. The authenticator app will generate a 6-digit code; enter this code in the space provided
8. Select Next
9. You may need to verify your identity with a text or phone call before continuing
10. Check the box to Set As Preferred Authentication Method
11. Click Done
12. We also suggest you turn on the option to Require Two-Factor Authentication For Each Login at the top of the section

If you need assistance in setting up a multifactor authenticator, please contact us.

Learn more about protecting your accounts at Kinecta’s Security Center.