MADISON, Wis. — A server-based, multi-factor authentication solution that exceeds the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council's authentication guidelines will be offered to credit unions through an addition to the strategic alliance between CUNA and TraceSecurity. TraceAuthenticate enables credit unions to provide members two-factor authentication. The product also helps credit unions to comply with the FFEIC guidelines to have a plan for multi-factor authentication, layered security, or other controls to reduce exposure to risk by Internet banking transactions. The FFEIC has given the financial services industry a deadline of Dec. 31, 2006, to incorporate their recommendation. The product is installed at a credit union as a stand-alone server and can support a variety of authentication techniques, from a non-intrusive multi-factor authentication to the latest technology in strong two-factor authentication. The appliance is easily managed and allows members to select the level of security that is best for them, ensuring complete satisfaction at a minimal impact to members. “A two-factor authentication process helps lessen vulnerabilities during online transactions, making it more difficult for criminals to steal personal information,” said Wes Millar, CUNA's senior vice president of Strategic Services. “This, combined with its manageability, made the product a perfect addition to our security solutions initiative.” TraceAuthenticate and the TraceAssure Toolbar are two components of the three-tiered TraceAssure Program, offered to credit unions through TraceSecurity's expanded alliance relationship with CUNA. The program's other component is end-user training.