The move allows KBC Bank Ireland customers to use the TouchID functionality of their iPhones instead of a PIN code for transparent security and enhanced convenience.

DIGIPASS for Apps is a software development kit (SDK) that allows mobile application developers to easily integrate advanced security solutions into their mobile applications. The solution includes two-factor authentication, electronic transaction signing, one-time passwords, device binding and many other features that strengthen security while improving user convenience.

KBC is an established customer of VASCO and uses VACMAN Controller, an API-based authentication platform that serves as the backend for all DIGIPASS authenticators. KBC has previously deployed DIGIPASS 275 hardware authenticators to their banking customers. The bank's implementation of DIGIPASS for Apps protects KBC's mobile banking transactions and also allows users of web-based banking applications to generate a one-time password on their phone for secure online banking.

"At KBC Bank Ireland, we are committed to giving customers a digital banking experience that is convenient, intuitive and above all, secure," stated Evert Vandenbussche, Chief Operations Officer, KBC Bank Ireland. "We are always looking for new ways to innovate and build on this experience for consumers as they move away from traditional banking methods to embrace new technologies. With the addition of DIGIPASS for Apps to KBC's mobile offering, our customers can now enjoy swift, secure mobile banking at their fingertips, making account access and paying for goods and services even easier than before."

"The movement to mobile banking has been rapid and far reaching, and it has brought new challenges and new opportunities," stated Jan Valcke, President and COO of VASCO Data Security. "By leveraging the advanced technology embedded in mobile phones, we can protect banks and their customers better than ever while improving the ease of conducting transactions."