Nationwide Building Society has clarified a rule that applies to customers using the mobile app. The issue came to light after a question came in from a member over social media.
They said they had switched to a new phone a few weeks ago and they were not able to enable biometrics on the new device. They asked: “How long is the waiting period to get these back?”
Biometrics is a security feature using a marker unique to you to verify that it is you trying to access your account. This can include using your fingerprint or face recognition, to confirm your identity.
Responding to the customer, Nationwide said: “If you get a new phone, you’ll need to wait to re-qualify for biometric authentication on that device. There’s no set timescale, and we’ll usually notify you by text message when it becomes available.”
They also directed the customer to a guide on the Nationwide website for how to set up biometric authentication. You can set up biometrics for your everyday banking, so you can use the feature to log into the app, and to authorise small and repeat payments in the app or internet bank.
You can also use biometrics in this way to verify your identity when you log into the internet bank. Customers can also set up biometricsin the app, to have an extra layer of security for sensitive requests.
This includes making bigger payments or resetting your passnumber. By having account biometrics set up, you will not need to use your card reader or debit card to log in or to make payments.
Fake bank notes warning
Nationwide also issued some guidance recently around how to spot counterfeit cash, after reports of fake notes being at one of its branches. A spokesperson said: “We are aware of a rise in scammers using fake banking notes to pay people for goods and would urge consumers to always check.
“Suspected counterfeits should be reported to the police, and guidance is available on the Bank of England website.” Fake notes often have a thick plastic sticker covering the hologram, which if you peel off may show these words: ‘for props only’.
Another sign a bank note is bogus is if some of the UV numbers can be easily scratched off. You may also want to check features such as the hologram and colour-shifting inks are all featured as they should be.