Bank of America issued a press release today announcing mobile enhancements, including new mobile support options, and introduced a new online Security Center to customers. Users of eligible Android, iPhone and iPads can now log into the mobile banking app using their fingerprint, which utilizes technology that meets the FIDO (Fast IDentity Online) standards:
“Bank of America today announced a series of improvements to mobile and online banking to better meet customers’ changing needs and make it easier for users to manage their finances digitally. The new updates include the introduction of fingerprint and Touch ID sign-in, in addition to the launch of an Apple Watch mobile banking app, streamlined “Accounts Overview” page and new Security Center for more than 31 million active digital banking customers.”
Also announced was support for Apple Watch, which allows a user to view account balances and recent transactions for their linked checking, savings, credit card and investment accounts, as well as receive real-time alerts and notifications on their watch. The mobile apps have also been enhanced to support quick link tiles, enabling quick access to the features they want, such as mobile check deposit, appointment scheduling and new account opening. All of these enhancements are complimented by a new online Security Center:
“The launch of a new Security Center offers mobile and online banking customers more tools to securely manage their finances, including additional options for signing into and monitoring activity on their accounts. Customers can now manage their digital banking security settings in one place, and can opt into an extra security feature at sign-in that helps verify the customer’s identity with a one-time authorization code sent via text or email each time they sign in.”
Bank of America also improved customer support on mobile devices by enhancing the existing Speak with a Specialist feature. This offers customers a list of topics, including bill pay inquiries, fee-related questions and the ability to report suspicious activity from a list, which then connects the user to the proper associate to address these needs. This feature was originally available only to Preferred customers, but will now be rolled out more broadly.
Overview by Tim Sloane, VP, Payments Innovation at Mercator Advisory Group
