AT&T has introduced a powerful new feature called Wireless Account Lock, designed to bolster the security of your wireless account and help protect your bank and other online accounts from unauthorized access. This free tool adds an extra layer of defense against cybercriminals who attempt to impersonate you to gain control of your accounts. This will help protect your bank account and other accounts that use codes sent by text messages.
With this new feature you can have:
- Enhanced Security: Wireless Account Lock prevents unauthorized changes to your AT&T account, such as billing updates or wireless number transfers, including SIM swaps that could allow hackers to intercept sensitive information like two-factor authentication codes.
- Easy Access: The feature is available through a simple toggle button in the myAT&T app for postpaid consumer wireless accounts. Business Account Lock and AT&T Prepaid account lock options are also available, with business administrators able to manage the feature online.
- User Control: You can lock or unlock your account at any time, but be aware that family members may need you to temporarily unlock the account for legitimate changes, like purchasing a new device.
Why It Matters: Cybercriminals often target online accounts by posing as legitimate users, using tactics like phishing emails, fraudulent text messages, or fake websites to steal usernames and passwords. Wireless Account Lock counters these threats by requiring an additional verification step before critical account changes can be made, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Beyond Wireless: Protecting All Your Accounts AT&T emphasizes the importance of securing all online accounts with multifactor authentication (MFA). Options include:
- Authenticator Apps: Generate time-sensitive codes or push notifications to verify logins.
- Hardware Tokens: Physical devices, like USB security keys, to confirm your identity.
- Passkeys: Software that combines device possession with biometrics, such as facial recognition or fingerprints, for seamless and secure access.
Staying Vigilant AT&T reminds customers that awareness is key to staying safe online. The company will never ask you to share passwords, one-time PIN codes, or disable Wireless Account Lock via phone calls or texts. For additional tips on safeguarding your accounts, visit att.com/CyberAware, where AT&T provides resources as part of its commitment to the National Cybersecurity Alliance.A Step Toward a Safer Future As online account access continues to simplify personal and business transactions, security remains a critical challenge. AT&T’s Wireless Account Lock is a proactive step toward protecting customers, while the company supports ongoing efforts to develop a “password-less” future for even greater convenience and safety.
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