New Online Security
Reading Time: 2 MinutesLast Updated: November 3, 2023
We’ve added an extra layer of security for our customers when they interact with us online. Now, my Social Security account holders are required to use their cell phone — in addition to their username and password — as another authentication factor during online registration and every sign in. An authentication factor is information used to determine if someone is who they claim to be.
This extra layer of security is called “multifactor authentication” and complies with an executive order requiring federal agencies to provide more secure authentication for their online services. Any agency that provides online access to a customer’s personal information must now use multifactor authentication.
Since my Social Security became available in May 2012, almost 26 million people have created an account. We have always offered multifactor authentication, but only for customers who opted for extra security. For your protection, we now require multifactor authentication for all my Social Security users. To register and sign in, you must now enter a security code that we will send to your cell phone. Your cell phone provider’s text message and data rates may apply.
Our research shows that an overwhelming majority of American adults have cell phones and use them for texting. Because of technical and resource constraints, we are not currently able to offer alternative methods of satisfying this security requirement. However, we may consider adding more options in the future. We appreciate your patience as we work continuously to secure your online information.
We’re committed to using the best technologies and standards available to protect our customers’ data. Multifactor authentication is just one of the ways we’re ensuring the safety and security of the resources entrusted to us. Visit my Social Security to learn more about this helpful suite of online services, including additional details about our latest security measures.
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Tags: my Social Security, my Social Security account
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Jim Borland, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications
Jim Borland, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications
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Judith
I was so pleased when I could finally access my account on line. This text message requirement is a giant step backwards and it won’t work for me as I live outside the US.
Ray F.
Hi Judith. If your cell phone can receive texts, you will still be able to access your account but keep in mind that your cell phone provider’s text message and data rates may apply. If you are overseas and cannot receive text messages or are concerned about roaming charges, you will not be able to access your account. Our webpage Services Around the World provides important information for our customers residing overseas. Please contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance related to Social Security benefits.
William D.
Some accounts I have provide the option of using one of two or three alternate phone numbers Why is a home number using a voice or touch tone response option off limits?
Ray F.
Thank you for your question William. We are limited to text messages for the initial multifactor authentication (MFA) implementation due to technical and resource constraints. We may consider adding additional options in the future.
HILDE H.
Since OLD people have SS most of them don’t text. So add some security questions, but don’t cater to the Millenniums who won’t need access to your website for many years.
Stephanie
I have trouble remembering passwords lil alone codes i can’t deal with this new stuff that keeps being add then you the social security government are making stuff to difficult to get to know or understand what you think we the disabled an on social security for the old an survivors of they loved ones that have passed away then you have all these rules that half the time we don’t or can’t understand then you tell us we was paid too much an then you withhold more or it’s not our fault if you make mistakes on our monthly benefits but you make it be our fault for your mistakes and we have to deal the best to get our own lives straighten out!!
Greg
I’m only 53 and I don’t have a cell phone at all. I do have a landline. This is a short-sighted decision that as pointed out by the many comments above mine does impact many folks who need access to their account information and don’t have or maybe don’t want to pay for cell service. Between the elderly, rural, foreign-living and those who don’t have a cell phone for whatever reason, there needs to be a functional alternative to support the users/payers of the SS system.
John N.
This is without a doubt one of the stupidest ideas to come out of the SSA ever. I do not have texting service and I don’t want it nor to have to pay for something I won’t use. Where was AARP when this lame-brain plan was being hatched? Too busy fund-raising, I’d guess, to even take the time. No wonder people have no use (let alone respect) for the government and its out-of-touch bureaucrats.
John O.
The AARP would have been no help. They have no financial skin in the game. They supported Obamacare as it allowed them to push supplemental policies and inturn make big bucks. Follow the money.
Guy
Just want to add my 2 cents that this is a BAD idea. Why not simply ask one of the secret questions and be done with it? Many seniors do not have a “smart” phone that can send and receive text messages. On top of that, even if they may have a “smart” phone, they may not have a plan that allows them to receive text messages without incurring additional charges. And someone posted a question for those who live overseas, does SSA have the capability to include 011 and the country code with the phone number? I know the IRS does not with its e-file schema.
Joe
One more reason to vote Trump. add 400 Million to Iran too vote Trump
Herb H.
Vote for Trump. We need a change from all the corrupt courier politicians in power.
Bernie
Most seniors don’t text or have smart phones. Surely you can send a code via email if you can send a text. That does not sound very technically challenging to me (IT professional)
Ray F.
Thank you for your comment Bernie. We are limited to text messages for the initial MFA implementation due to technical and resource constraints. We may consider adding additional options in the future.
Walter R.
OMG… a government online bot spewing excuses. Just as ridiculous as this texting nonsense.
ben
I guess this is another supposed good thing from the OBAMA administration (LOL). Don’t vote for HILLARY or you’ll get more of the same old supposed GOOD FOR PEOPLE crap.
Chanel T.
Why blame Obama?
Herb H.
I’m a Vietnam Veteran. Since your buddy Obama came into office, the VA is going downhill fast. I guess he’s doing the same thing to the Social Security system. Shame on him.
John O.
No one is, we are blaming his hacks working in an alphabet agency.
CB
He’s the one the EXECUTIVE ORDER came from Chanel.
No M.
Really, not everyone has a compatible cell phone. Many people have older cell phones that are just phones. This is a typical example of someone who came up with a supposed brilliant idea but who has not thought it all the way through. You have imposed a new rule for people with limited funds who may not have the luxury of high tech gadgets and made life even more difficult. Really?