Online banking.

[tonywiltshire]

I have online banking and have been issued with a secure key, which produces a six-digit random number, which, with other security methods, grants me access to my account.
Does anyone know the six-digit number is recognised if it is random?

[coccinelle]

Do you mean you have a six digit number and you have to click this number into a grid?

[Kayless]

I think the OP means "does anyone know HOW......."

If It's like the one I've got, it's not random, it is a pre defined algorithm based on time. ie the key and the site calculate a new code every 10 seconds or so using the same calculation and same starting point. Does the number on your key change regularly all the time?

[tonywiltshire]

I have to generate the six-digit number with a code and then insert it online to gain access.

[factor-fiction]

Yes it's based on algorithm. It'll be based on factors such as date and the sortcode/number of the account, and may use prime numbers too.

[dzug2]

It's based on a one way algorithm - a code that is relatively easy to encipher but very difficult/impossible to decipher.

Both ends make the same calculation using the same data and if the results match you get access

Look up Public Key Cryptography if interested.

[tonywiltshire]

Thanks for comments I will investigate cryptography.

[DTCwordfan]

I sit here and laugh at the message on lloyds phone banking.

"We will never ask you for your six number code, it will be always just two numbers. This is for your security."

Duhhh - I have your account and tel number - and I phone up three days successively, or over a week and ask you for two numbers. "Please may I have your 1st and 5th number.." and bingo. I gradually extract the code.

Not that secure in my humble view.....