OTP codes and no mobile signal

a_smile_costs_nothing

Hi, my elderly mother (90 and registered partially sighted)  banks with Santander and they require OTP codes to transfer monies etc. My parents live in a dead spot for mobile signals and rely on wifi. If Santander send an OTP code it can take a whole day to arrive which is no good when the code times out within 10 minutes. Santander said they would change the account so the codes arrive via email and despite ringing 4 times and them say they have arranged this they still only offer to sends them via text whenever we try. It’s so frustrating and I’m getting nowhere with them. My question is, does anyone know of any current accounts that do not require OTP texts to conduct simple banking business. Thank you 

jbrassy

I assume from your post that, while your parents have poor mobile signal, they at least have broadband Internet?

If so, do their phones have WiFi calling enabled? This would allow them to receive the texts, even though mobile signal is poor. 

jbrassy

Sorry, to answer your actual question, First Direct do not send OTP codes via text. All authorisation codes are generated via the app on your phone. 

Mark_d

Starling and Kroo don't need OTP texts.  Perhaps your mother should consider First Direct telephone banking?

Rob5342

Getting a mobile and provider that supports wifi calling would be one option. Alternatively if they still have a home phone then with Halifax you can get an automated phone call instead of a text.

FlorayG

Both First Direct and Monzo contact you via their app. I can recommend both - Monzo is particularly easy to use

Rob5342

I agree about Monzo but an app only bank might not be very easy to use if you are partially sighted.

Brie

Would it be easier if you assisted with the online banking - assuming your signal is better where you live?

Given mom's age and vision issues you might want to get third party authority on her (both parents'?) accounts so rather than waiting on hold to the bank she can ring you, have a chat, and you can do her banking for her.  TPA means that you can access her account online, have a debit card etc.  Basically do everything that she can do with her account short of close it.  It would require you and her likely having an appointment in branch to set it up and for them to be assured that you weren't trying to scam her in any way.  

She could of course just give you access to her online account without involving the bank but if/when they find out they are likely to shut it down completely as a breach of T&Cs.  

sheramber

How do I use One Time Passcode if I do not have mobile phone coverage? 

used in conjunction with a registered mobile phone with network coverage. However, don't forget that the majority of commonly used online banking transactions do not require OTP. If you do not wish to use a mobile phone then you can still make a payment to a new recipient using your branch or telephone banking service. Once a new recipient is set up, subsequent payments to that recipient can be made online without OTP.

https://retail.santander.co.uk/Estatico/ALP_LOGSUK_Logon/Html/migracionv1_FAQ_RBS.html#o2

wonderland21

I am also supporting my elderly aunt (90). She wants to be independent but cannot use a mobile phone or tablet. Her bank, Santander insist on a text OTP for online orders. Is there a credit card / pre paid credit card / or bank account that is committed to offering a landline (or possibly email) version of the OTP.  She just wants to get some groceries. She can no longer drive and is increasingly isolated and marginalised, leading to her having some v dark thoughts. Any ideas how I can help her process online orders without more tech?? Thank you x 

blue.peter

Nationwide allows verification with a cardreader.