2026-01-20 09:00
publication
2026-01-20 09:00
PKO Bank Polski has implemented another method of authorizing transfers sent online. In selected cases, the customer will need to confirm his identity for this purpose. A camera located on the phone will be useful for this, because the bank will really want to check who is typing numbers into the smartphone.
PKO Bank Polski announced the introduction of a new authorization method on its website on January 16, 2026. According to the information contained therein, additional verification involves taking a photo of your ID card and taking a selfie, which will confirm that the transfer is actually initiated by the account owner. The new solution applies to transactions performed via the IKO application.
Face photo or transfer cancellation
So far, the portfolio of transaction authorization methods in the application included codes sent via SMS to the telephone number assigned to this bank account, codes from a special code card received from the bank, and mobile authorization, e.g. using biometrics.
The new authorization method does not replace the existing ones, but complements them. It may appear occasionally and, according to the bank, it functions as an additional security for the funds accumulated in the client's accounts.
It may be activated, for example, if there is a suspicion that the customer has fallen victim to fraud and someone else wants to withdraw funds from his account or deposit.
The transfer is canceled if the customer has not taken a photo of his ID card and the so-called selfie within the time specified by the bank. Information about when the customer has time to complete verification will appear simultaneously with the request for authorization.
Mobile applications are becoming more and more popular
According to the latest quarterly report published by the Polish Bank Association, NetB@ank, the popularity of mobile applications among customers is still growing. In the third quarter of 2025, the number of active users of the application was over 26.8 million. This is a result of approximately 558 thousand. higher than the second quarter of last year and higher by over 3.5 million compared to the corresponding quarter of 2024.
Prepared by MDe
