DRS Email 19-019, Security Changes Coming to DRS Customer Accounts
Notice No.: 19-019
Date: Nov. 12, 2019
Applies to: All Employers
Subject: DRS Email 19-019, Security Changes Coming to DRS Customer Accounts
The Department of Retirement Systems is strengthening the security of our customers’ online accounts by establishing a verification process known as multi-factor authentication (MFA). We wanted to make you aware of this enhancement and the communication we are sending to customers about what they need to do to prepare for it.
As you may know, multi-factor authentication provides a way for online account holders to verify ownership of the account beyond entering a user ID and password. With MFA, users are sent a verification code to their registered email address or mobile number when they log in or sign up as a new user. The code must be entered to access the account.
As MFA is implemented, DRS will be sending a postcard to all account holders over the next several weeks to advise of the upcoming change and to encourage them to ensure their email and mobile numbers are up to date. The postcard says:
New security measures are coming to your DRS online account
Be sure we have your current mobile number and email!
For future logins, you may be required to verify ownership of your online retirement account with an authentication code sent to the mobile phone number or email address you’ve registered with the Department of Retirement Systems. To avoid interruptions, be sure your mobile number (if available) and email address are current in your DRS account. To securely update and verify this information, log in at www.drs.wa.gov/oaa and select “My Account.”
Similar messaging will be added to the DRS website.
If your employees have questions about multi-factor authentication, please have them contact DRS.
If you have additional questions regarding this notice, please contact DRS Employer Support Services at 360-664-7200, option 2, or 800-547-6657, option 6, option 2, or email us.
