Bank Security changes requires a US Phone

[FranklinGray]

I have been cruising for 6 years. I have 3 accounts with Wells Fargo (hate them but they bought my bank) and need to manage them from time to time. I access my accounts via their online banking website, but just recently they changed their security policies to require 2 step verification at times. This requires me to have a US phone for them to send a security code via text message.

I have been looking for a bank better suited for my lifestyle (everything done via internet) but have struck out. Seems they are all requiring a phone number for 2 step security verification.

What is working for you US sailors cruising internationally? I would hate to place a burden on somebody in the US to handle my text messages. I like to stay independent of anybody.

[Paul L]

We use a Skype US number. It's cheap but has one big draw back. It can't accept SMS text messages.

[gmakhs]

i use N26 bank , but i am from europe....



maybe you can use something similar for your running expences.

[Dsanduril]

National Geographic/Cellular Abroad have a terribly expensive travel SIM program for cell phones. But, it provides a US cell number and comes with free incoming SMS messages. If you use it only for its incoming SMS then it isn't too bad ($30 to get a SIM and sign up). You'll have to make one short call a year to keep it active, but otherwise can use it just to get the incoming SMS for two-factor authentication.

We use Google Fi as a cell provider because it provides a US number, calls, and data at somewhat reasonable rates in most places in the world. Depends on whether you really want to have mobile service or just want the SMS messages.

[Franziska]

See if you can find a bank which provides an offline security code generator.
Mine over here in Germany does.
It's supposed to be safer than having all on one phone.
UBS had (has?) something like that too.
There may be banks who use an app like "Authy" instead after a first initial setup with a local phone.
Sorry I can not be US specific but maybe it helps to find the right questions to ask the banks. Keep us posted on your results.

[Float55]

I have used a VOIP provider called callcentric.com. I saw recently they started offering SMS messaging with their service. It might be worth checking out.

[wholybee]

A number of US providers and phones offer wifi calling. When wifi is available, the phone uses that instead of the cellular connection. You could be anywhere in the world that has wifi, and use your US number. Not 100% positive it supports SMS, but it works for voice.

[john61ct]

TextNow is free if you use it once a week.

Or under $10/mo

[Kenomac]

TMobile international has worked out so far, but after four months abroad they drop me on the fifth month, so to stay abroad for a year I’d need two accounts.

[redbrix]

For folks in the US (maybe Canada, not sure) TALKATONE.COM has a soft phone (requires internet access) that provides a free phone number, and free calls to any phone number in the US and Canada. This service also allows for txt msgs, and, will also do voice msgs on the app as well as a recorded attachment to an email address. I think the only requirement is to use the service once in every 30 days to keep your number active
I have been using this for more than one year, pretty awesome
It works on both iPhone and Android phones
I have no affiliation

Good luck

[john61ct]

To clarify, you want an "over the top" app-based service, can be used with whatever cheap / burner SIM you pick up locally, or even WiFi on your computer or tablet, no cell service required.

So for TextNow, you don't need to use their SIM-based cell service, just the app. Same number works concurrently across all your devices.

You just pay them to make your number permanent, rather than having to remember to send a text every week.

Much easier than figuring out how to do the same with a roll-your-own VoIP+SMS service.

[zeehag]

my momma is my cosigner. i trust momma she has her own money and doesnot want to see me in trouble wherein she needs to bail my ass out of financial ruin, so she is my usa fone number. easy for me, difficult for more dysfunctional families.
i quit bankofamerica and wellsfargo long ago for stealing my funds from my account against the conditions in the contract.

[rickdamico]

I have Wells Fargo and it’s two step varification process, can be turned off so your other accounts can monitor it. It’s a simple process, just go to your account home page and follow instructions.

[Avionics_Joe]

Look into Google Voice,

Can make calls and send and receive SMS with just an internet connection.

It's free for SMS and calls are cheap, works for me.

Good luck!

[kudukuguam]

I use First Hawaiian Bank, Normally, I receive either a text or call for verification. I change my options before a trip so that I'm asked security questions online instead. Works great