Protecting your financial assets in the digital age requires robust and responsive security measures. The Bankwest Secure Code acts as a critical layer of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), ensuring that only you can authorize high-risk transactions or make sensitive changes to your account profile.
Whether you are transferring funds to a new payee, updating your contact details, or increasing your daily payment limits, the secure code system verifies your identity in real-time. Understanding how to manage your registered devices and troubleshoot common delivery issues is essential for a seamless, uninterrupted digital banking experience.
Understanding Bankwest Secure Code Triggers
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Delivery Methods | Standard SMS to a registered mobile number or push notification via the Bankwest App. |
| High-Risk Triggers | Adding a new payee, updating personal details, or performing large external BPAY transfers. |
| Code Validity | Codes are strictly time-sensitive and will expire within a few minutes for your protection. |
| International Access | Requires active global roaming for SMS, or Wi-Fi access if using the in-app authentication method. |
Step-by-Step: Update Personal Details
You can easily add a contact phone number and update your residential, postal, or email address through the app or via online banking. Please note that updates to your occupation can only be made using the app.
In the app
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Log in to the Bankwest App.
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Tap on the ‘Profile’ icon located in the top left-hand corner.
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Go to ‘Settings’, tap on ‘Personal Details’, and enter your secure PIN.
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Select the specific details you wish to change and follow the on-screen prompts.
In online banking
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Go to ‘My details’ and select ‘My contact details’ from the main menu.
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Enter your secure SMS code when prompted.
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Choose the information you want to update and follow the on-screen prompts.
Update Mobile Number
For security purposes, we require verbal confirmation to update your registered mobile number. Please contact us at 13 17 19 for assistance, or call +61 8 9449 2840 if you are currently overseas.
Update Overseas Details
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Overseas contact numbers: If you need to register an international phone number, you must call us directly at 13 17 19 (or +61 8 9449 2840 from outside Australia). Keep in mind that international call rates will apply.
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International address: If you are moving overseas and need to update to an international address, simply send us a secure message directly within the app or online banking to process the change.
Troubleshooting Common Authentication Issues
If you encounter difficulties while trying to receive or input your security code, here are the standard solutions:
- MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) Delays: If your Secure Code SMS is delayed, check your mobile network reception and ensure your inbox is not full. Wait a full 60 seconds before clicking Resend Code to avoid triggering multiple conflicting codes from the system.
- Browser Errors: If the pop-up box required to enter your secure code fails to load or freezes during a transfer, stale cache data is likely the culprit. Clear your browser history or log in via an Incognito Window to force a clean, uninterrupted session.
- Locked ID: Entering an incorrect Secure Code or banking password three times will temporarily lock your Personal Access Number (PAN). You must use the Forgotten Password recovery link or contact the Bankwest fraud team directly to verify your identity and unlock your profile.
Pro-Tip: To make the authentication process faster and significantly safer against SIM-swapping fraud, transition from traditional SMS codes to the Bankwest App's built-in secure token feature. In-app authentication relies on your device's biometric security (such as Face ID or fingerprint) and works seamlessly over Wi-Fi, meaning you can authorize transactions instantly even when traveling overseas without cellular reception.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my registered mobile number changes?
You must update your number immediately to ensure you continue receiving your Secure Codes. If you still have access to your old number to receive an initial verification prompt, you can update this via Online Banking. If your old phone is lost or disconnected, you must call Bankwest or visit a branch with valid photo identification.
Why didn't I receive a Secure Code for my recent transfer?
Bankwest utilizes an intelligent fraud monitoring system to determine when a Secure Code is necessary. You may not receive a code for small, everyday transactions to established payees or when transferring money between your own linked Bankwest accounts.
