SMS Security and Alerts
SMS Security, also known as two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an additional layer of security when using Internet Banking or the Bank First app.
SMS Security
SMS Security, also known as two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an additional layer of security when using Internet Banking or the Bank First app. An SMS One Time Password is sent to your mobile phone when completing various Internet Banking activities.
You’ll get an SMS one-time password when you are:
Resetting your password
Adding a new Payee
Adding a new Biller
Updating a scheduled transfer or payment
Creating or managing your PayID
Updating your card PIN
Updating your contact details
You will automatically be registered for SMS One Time Password when you set up Internet Banking.
Alternatively, contact us for a friendly Member Service Consultant to help you register for SMS One Time Password.
Once you have registered, Bank First will send an SMS One Time Password to your mobile phone when you initiate the above activities. Simply enter the one time password to complete your activity.
The SMS One Time Password will expire if you close or cancel the activity (e.g. cancel out of making a payment) or your Internet Banking session times out.
The SMS One Time Password can only be used for only one authentication process, so if you are completing multiple actions you may require multiple passwords. This password will not be accepted on second or following attempts.
No. Bank First provides this service free of charge. You should check with your mobile phone provider to confirm whether or not you would be charged for receiving SMS, particularly when overseas.
No. SMS security is not compulsory for Members, however Bank First recommends SMS Security for all Internet Banking users.
SMS Security will provide you with stronger authentication and more peace of mind.
Yes. Contact us to change your mobile number or you can update it yourself via Internet Banking if both the new and existing mobile numbers are active.
No. Members can register only one mobile phone number for all SMS Services.
Yes. You will still be able to use SMS security, however we would recommend you to contact us to discuss alternative security options.
No. You will not be able to receive a SMS One Time Password when using an international mobile number.
You can receive an SMS while overseas if your handset and SIM card allow global roaming and the country you are in operates via a compatible network. Please check with your mobile phone provider.
What should I do if I have trouble using SMS Security?
Below are some common issues that you may face and steps you can take.
You can contact us and we can talk your through alternative options.
It may be that somebody else is attempting to access your Internet Banking. You should contact us immediately.
If you haven't received confirmation by SMS after 2-3 minutes, please contact us.
SMS and Email Alerts
SMS and Email Alerts easily allow you to monitor your accounts 24/7. You can request specific information on account balances, deposits and withdrawals to be sent to you automatically via SMS and email.
Choose from the following alerts:
Balances
Savings or Investment account balance is below or above a nominated balance
Loan or Overdraft account balance is below or above a nominated balance
A Credit or Deposit transaction is more than nominated amount
A Debit or Withdrawal transaction is more than the nominated amount
Overdue Payments
A Loan Repayment is overdue
Credit Card payment is overdue
Payment Notifications
A change in Daily Debit Limit
A Direct Debit was made
A Pension or Government Agency deposit
A payroll deposit
An unsuccessful Future Dated Payment
Payment due date for a Credit Card/Overdraft account
Notification of a change in loan repayment amount
Account Updates
An upcoming maturing Term Deposit
A change in cash advance rate on a Credit Card account
Login to Internet Banking
Select Services
Select Alerts
Select a default account
Click submit
Login to Internet Banking
Select Services
Select Alerts
Click New Alert
Select your account, e.g. '11111S1 - John Person'
Choose type of Alert
Click Next
Tick the appropriate Alert Detail
Select your contact method (Email or SMS)
Click Save
Email alerts are free.
Yes, you must activate SMS Security in order to use SMS Alerts. SMS Alerts is an optional service.
Yes. You can modify or cancel your Alerts at any time through Internet Banking.
Login to Internet Banking
Select Services
Select Alerts
Select your existing Alert
Alter the appropriate Alert Detail
Select your contact method (Email or SMS)
Click Save
Yes. You can send and receive SMS whilst overseas if your handset and SIM card allow global roaming and the country you are in operates via a compatible network. Please check with your mobile phone provider.
No. SMS Services must be requested and received by the mobile phone that is registered for your Internet Banking profile.