Multifactor Authentication (MFA) Update – Coming Soon
This October 2025, we will be implementing MFA triggers tied to specific digital banking transactions. This will send a verification code to you when you complete the transactions below on your online banking.
Specific transaction requests that will require a code:
- Adding an e-transfer recipient
- Adding a Bill Payee
- Editing an e-transfer recipient
- Changing a password
What is Multifactor Authentication (MFA)?
Multifactor Authentication, also known as 2-Step Verification, is an account login process requiring multiple methods of authentication to verify your identity to log in. Currently, MAXA Financial has a MemberCard Number and Personal Access Code (PAC) to log in, and in 2023, we added an additional layer of protection with the 2-Step Verification, which will periodically have you enter a verification code to login.
Multifactor Authentication helps safeguard your money against fraud by creating an extra barrier that is harder for cybercriminals to break through. It is an essential step towards keeping your accounts safer and giving you peace of mind knowing you are better protected when banking online.
What new features can I look forward to?
Device binding
Device binding allows you to exempt logins from authentication challenges if those logins are from a recognized device. This is done by selecting the “bind-device” check box (“I trust this device”) found on the Enter Your Verification Code page when you enroll in 2SV or log in.
Voice calling with code
You can now register either a mobile phone number, an email address, or a voice call number through which to receive verifications codes. Ideal for members without smartphones or those who don’t use SMS or email regularly.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I register for 2-step verification under multiple channels? (using SMS, email, and/or voice calls)?
Yes, but you can only register one of the following: a phone number, email address, or voice call number to receive codes during initial enrollment. You can add additional notification channels after enrollment through the “Profiles & Settings” page. Setting additional notifications is recommended by MAXA Financial.
Will multiple verification code notifications be sent if I have other notification channels registered under MFA?
No. During each stepped-up authentication, you will be presented with a selection page where you can select which channel you wish to be notified.
How many attempts do I get to verify a verification code?
The default and recommended setting for maximum attempts to validate a verification code is 3. This limit does not apply during your 2-Step Verification enrollment or when you update your 2-Step Verification settings.
If my account is locked out after failing to provide the correct verification code, how can the account be unlocked?
Please call MAXA Financial’s team at 1-866-366-MAXA (6292) to be authenticated. We’re here to assist you in the process.
What should I do if I do not receive the SMS text message, email, or voice call with the verification code?
After waiting a reasonable amount of time (5-10 mins) for the notification to arrive, try re-sending the code using the “send new code” option on the Enter Your Verification Code page.
Will all my settings such as e-Transfer Recipients, Bill Payment Schedules and Security Alerts be affected by this update?
No. All current settings such as Bill Payment Schedules, e-Transfer Recipients, Payee Names and Security Alerts will not be affected.
Will there be any downtime or disruption to the online system or app during the update?
No, there won’t be any disruption to the online banking system or WestobaGO Mobile App. If you are experiencing any issues with the mobile app, please try re-installing WestobaGO.
If you are still experiencing issues after re-installing, please call us at 1-866-366-MAXA (6292).
What is a SMS or SMS Text Message?
SMS stands for “Short Message Service” and is a text message method used by Westoba to send a 2-step verification code to your mobile phone number (landline phone numbers cannot be used) to verify your identity. SMS is the recommended verification method as it is more secure than email.
What is I lost my phone and/or access to the email associated with my 2-Step Verification?
If you are unable to access your mobile phone or email associated with your 2-Step Verification, please call our team at 1-866-366-MAXA (6292) to reset.
Then you will be prompted to re-enroll when logging into online banking or the MAXA Mobile App.
MAXA Financial will never ask for personal or financial information like account numbers, PINs, codes, or passwords through email or text message or ask you to click on any links when prompted for 2-Step Verification.