PC Branch

Member Benefits

MFA: Frequently Asked Questions

Computer and Internet security is a complex and growing issue. It is an issue that can be difficult and confusing for many people. There are so many strange words and acronyms that it can seem like someone is talking a foreign language when they are discussing it.

Below, we've provided the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) to remove the mystery of safe, online account access for members. There are a few new acronyms to learn but once you're enrolled in the new Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) system, your PCBranch login will not change too much. It is necessary for Members to enroll by December 31, 2006.

IMPORTANT REMINDER:
There are many software tools you can install on your home computer that will further protect you in your online travels:

  • Anti-Virus Software
  • Anti-Spyware Software
  • Firewalls
  • Web browser software - update regularly

Click here to Enroll

You may click on a specific question to be linked to the answer of that question or scroll down to read all questions.

What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Why do I need these new security features?

Are these new security features easy to use?

How do I enroll in MFA?

What is a Security Code?

How do I register my computer?

Can I access my accounts from any computer?

What is a Security Image?

What are Security Questions?

Can I change my Security Questions?

How will USACU confirm my online identify?

How do I know if I'm at USACU's website and not a fraudulent site?

Will I still have access to all the same online accounts?

Do you have a demo of MFA that I can review?

Do I need any special equipment to log into this new system?

What Internet browsers will work with MFA?




What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

It's a fancy name for new online security features. Actually, it's a sophisticated new security system that helps you identify that you're on our official website and not an imposter site. It also insures that we can identify that YOU are the one accessing your online accounts and not a fraudster.

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Why do I need these new security features?

We are committed to safeguarding you, our member, against Internet fraudsters who may attempt to retrieve your personal information via online access. Your credit union is being proactive in providing these enhanced security features to help protect your online financial information.

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Are these new security features easy to use?

Yes! There will be a few additional steps during your initial Enrollment process but overall you won't notice too many changes to your login experience. For a helpful demonstration of MFA, visit www.usacu.org/demo.

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How do I enroll in MFA?

On the left side of our home page you will see a new login screen for PCBranch. Click on the Register for MFA button. Enter your Member Number and PIN. Next you will need to enter the Security Code presented to you and located below your Member Number.

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What is a Security Code?

This is a random 5-character code located on the PCBranch login screen. The purpose of this code is to prevent automated attempts by Internet fraudsters to capture your Member Number and PIN. You'll notice this random Security Code changes with each visit to PCBranch.

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How do I register my computer?

After enrollment, and the first time you login with MFA, you'll be asked if you want to register your computer(s). Registering your computer(s) will make your login process quick and easy. That's because PCBranch remembers your computer. If you choose not to register your computer(s), or you need to login from a different computer, you will be asked to answer one of your Security Questions each time you login to PCBranch.

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Can I access my accounts from any computer?

Yes, you can. If you login from a new computer or a public computer, you will need to go through one extra step; answering one of your Security Questions. There is no limit to how many computers you can use to login to your accounts.

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What is a Security Image?

This is an image you select during the enrollment process to help you identity that you're accessing PCBranch through our official site. This is our Password back to YOU. You'll know you've safely entered the correct website and we'll know it's really you. If the security image presented to you does not match what you selected, exit the system and call the credit union.

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What are Security Questions?

These are predefined questions that you select and answer. These are questions that only you will know the answer to such as: "What street did you grow up on?" or "What was your first dog's name?" You can also customize your questions and subsequent answers. The Security Questions are used as an added security measure when you are accessing your online accounts from a computer other than your registered computer(s).

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Can I change my Security Questions?

Yes, you can change them at any time. Simply login to PCBranch and click on More Features. Then click on Security Options. You can change or customize your questions and answers, your security image and nickname, and unregister any of your computers on this administrative page.

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How will USACU confirm my online identity?

We will confirm your identity in two of three ways:
  • Verify your Member Number and Password
  • Determine if you are accessing your account(s) by a registered computer
  • Confirm that you can correctly answer one of your Security Questions


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How do I know if I'm at USACU's website and not a fraudulent site?

That is the beauty of this enhanced security system! We confirm you are our member - and you confirm you're at our official site. Here's how it works. When you enroll in MFA, you will choose a Security Image. The image you've selected will be presented to you when you login to PCBranch. This is essentially our Password back to YOU so you know you're at our official site.

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Will I still have access to all the same online accounts?

Absolutely. This new feature only affects how you login to PCBranch to do your online banking.

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Do you have a demo of MFA that I can review?

Yes, please visit www.usacu.org/demo.

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Do I need any special equipment to log into this new system?

Your existing equipment used to access PCBranch is all you need.

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What Internet browsers will work with MFA?

Most browsers will work. However, please visit these sites to download a current version of the following if you find yours does not work: ^ TOP ^


Click here to Enroll