The singe sign-on and password management solution enables users to log into a computer system just once using a secure credential. The smart card has helped Ascend just about eliminate the need for passwords. This represents a time and cost savings for the credit union’s IT staff, as help desk calls for password-related support have the potential to drain valuable IT resources.

In the near future, Ascend plans to implement Diebold’s Managed Access Control solution so authorized personnel can access specific areas of branch locations with the option to define access by specific dates and times. Credit union security managers control access permissions and supervise the cardholder database using a secure Web site or by working directly with Diebold’s Event Monitoring Center.

Diebold is also providing Ascend with a pure-IP surveillance system enabling remote, Web-based viewing and analysis in real time. In addition, the IP surveillance system helps Ascend quickly digitize and transmit video images, intrusion detection information, access control data and various reports.

While Diebold’s solutions decreased Ascend’s password requirements, the credit union chose to keep some password controls in place. To minimize help desk calls, Diebold installed a self-service password reset tool, which enables employees to reset passwords by answering specific personal questions.