In response to the growing threat of phishing attacks targeting co-op members in the utility industry, NWEC is taking proactive steps to enhance the security of its SmartHub billing and payment system. We are pleased to announce the implementation of two-factor authentication (2FA) as an added layer of protection for your account.
“Phishing attacks are a common tactic used by cybercriminals to get you to reveal your personal information, such as login credentials or financial details,” says Andrew Overman, Director of Finance & Accounting. “These are not system breaches or applications being hacked, but social engineering attempts. These attacks often involve fraudulent emails or text messages that appear to be from a legitimate organization, enticing you to click on a malicious link or provide sensitive information.”
Recognizing the importance of safeguarding your account information, NWEC is committed to providing a secure online experience. Implementing 2FA adds an extra layer of security to help prevent unauthorized access to your SmartHub account.
“With 2FA, you must provide two forms of identification before gaining access to your account,” Overman says. “This typically involves entering a unique code sent to your mobile device or email address and your username and password. This added security measure makes it significantly more difficult for cybercriminals to compromise your account, even if they have obtained login credentials through phishing or other means.”
NWEC encourages all its members to enroll in 2FA to further protect their accounts from unauthorized access. Overman adds, “This will allow us to satisfy our commitment to protecting your account while giving you the trusted confidence of secure transactions.”
Members with questions or concerns about phishing attacks or 2FA are encouraged to contact NWEC’s office at 419-636-5051 for assistance.
More about 2FA
2FA is a security feature that requires you to verify your identity in multiple ways before accessing an account. You might also hear it called multifactor authentication or two-step verification.
2FA adds another layer of protection to your account — think of it like securing your front door with both a deadbolt and a keypad lock. It is a simple, effective way to keep hackers out, even if they manage to get your password.
After enabling 2FA on your SmartHub account, your login process will change a little bit. First, you will enter your username and password like you did in the past, but now, you will be required to verify your identity in a second way.
Depending on which method you choose for 2FA, the second step may involve facial recognition, fingerprint access, or one-time codes sent to your email or phone. This step will add a few more seconds to your login process but it will almost double your security.