December 12, 2024
Protecting your account and personal information is our top priority. We've added new security measures to better protect your mobile services. This article explains how these protections work and provides answers to common questions, so you can understand what we're doing and how you can protect your account.
What security measures has GCI provided to protect my account?
GCI offers several security features to help keep your account safe:
1. Mobile Security Account Lock
This optional feature protects your wireless number by blocking unauthorized changes to your services when enabled. This lock prohibits SIM changes or the transfer of your number to another wireless provider. To enable it:
For Prepaid:
A. Log in to your FastPhone SelfCare account
B. Go to "Mobile Security Account Lock"
C. Toggle the lock to "Enabled"
For Postpaid:
A. Log in to your MyGCI account
B. Go to "Users." Find your name and click on Manage Profile.
C. Navigate to Mobile Security tab
D. Go to "Mobile Security Account Lock," and toggle the lock to "On"
If you are using a mobile device to access MyGCI, after completing steps A and B, you see tabs labeled "Profile Settings" and "Notification Preferences" at the top. Swipe left to find the Mobile Security tab at the far right. See the image below.
2. Number Transfer PIN (NTP)
An NTP is a security code used to authorize number transfer requests (also called “port-outs”) to another provider. To generate an NTP:
For Prepaid:
A. Log in to your FastPhone SelfCare account
B. Go to "Number Transfer PIN"
C. Select "PIN Destination"
D. Select "Request NTP"
For Postpaid:
A. Log in to your MyGCI account
B. In the top right corner, click
C. Navigate to Mobile Security tab
D. Go to "Number Transfer PIN," click "Request NTP." An active NTP appears at the bottom, along with the expiration date.
You can also contact GCI at 800.800.4800 to generate an NTP.
3. SIM Changes One-Time PIN (OTP)
The OTP is a temporary code sent to your phone number or email to authenticate a SIM change request. This helps ensure that only you can make changes to your account. In addition to these features, when you contact us about your account, our customer service representatives will ask for your CPNI PIN or account password to protect against unauthorized access.
For prepaid customers, you can set up your account on SelfCare and create a secure account password.
Why can't I use "12345" as my CPNI PIN or account password?
Using easily guessable passwords like "12345,” your ZIP code, or your mother’s maiden name puts your account at risk. Strong, unique passwords are important for protecting your personal information.
Why do I have to get a one-time PIN to change my SIM card?
The extra verification step is designed to protect your account. It ensures that only you can access your information and make changes, to help keep your account safe from unauthorized changes.
C. Don't respond to suspicious texts or emails
D. Avoid clicking links from unknown sources
E. Keep your social media accounts private and limit the info you share in public posts
F. Use unique, secure passwords for every account