Sparkasse set up tan process: how it works

ChipTAN, smsTAN and pushTAN - these are the Sparkasse's new TAN processes. The days of the TAN lists on paper, previously indispensable for online banking, are finally history. Instead, the Sparkasse offers you three new, digital TAN procedures.

Sparkasse's new digital TAN processes - that's them

After the previous TAN procedure became too insecure over time, the financial institution had to upgrade. The well-known TAN lists on paper are now taboo - the new TANs are only available digitally.

• The Sparkasse has decided to offer its customers three options so that everyone can choose the TAN method that suits them. So you are spoiled for choice.
• The chipTAN process is particularly clever, but also somewhat more complex. Added to this are the costs for the so-called TAN generator.
• The smsTAN process is much easier. This procedure is particularly suitable for customers who make relatively little transfers and therefore rarely need a TAN.
• The pushTAN process is also comparatively simple and quite similar to the smsTAN process. In order to be able to use the pushTAN process, however, you need the Sparkasse S-pushTAN app.
• The same applies to all TAN procedures of the Sparkasse: No matter which procedure you choose, you must have your Sparkasse enable you in advance.

The pushTAN procedure - this is how the Sparkasse's TAN procedure works

To take part in the pushTAN procedure, first register with your Sparkasse for the pushTAN procedure. The financial institution will then send you your access data for the S-pushTAN app by post.

• You also need the Sparkasse's free app for the TAN procedure. You can download the S-pushTAN app for Android from the Google Store and the S-pushTAN app for iOS from the Apple Store.
• As soon as you have installed the S-pushTAN app on your smartphone or tablet, log in with your password. Then set up a new account.
• Go to "Financial Status" to set up the new account. You will find the menu at the bottom left. First click on "Edit" and then on the option "Set up a new account".
• After you have entered your pushTAN login name or your authentication ID, click on "Next" and then enter your chosen PIN. Finally, confirm the data you have provided.
• Then you can start. Prepare a transfer as usual and send it to the Sparkasse. Then go to the S-pushTAN app and check the transfer details again.
• If everything is correct, confirm this and immediately receive a TAN. Enter the TAN, which is only valid for this one transfer, in your transfer and then finally release it for further processing.

The Sparkasse's smsTAN process

The smsTAN process is very similar to the pushTAN process, but is basically a bit simpler. At the beginning, however, as with the pushTAN process, you have to register with your savings bank.

• You don't need an app for the smsTAN process. You don't even need a smartphone, a simple cell phone is enough. However, you cannot carry out the transfer from the smartphone on which you receive the TAN.
• This means that you absolutely need two devices for the smsTAN process. For example, you can use your computer or tablet for home banking and your smartphone for TAN.
• Otherwise, everything works as described for the pushTAN process. You finish the transfer and send it off. You will then receive the TAN and details of the transfer via SMS. If the data match, enter the TAN in the transfer and release it.
• The same applies to the smsTAN procedure: the TAN is only valid for this one transfer. You cannot use the TAN for another transfer. This basically applies to all three SparkAN TAN procedures and serves security.

The chipTAN process - the safest variant

The chip TAN procedure is somewhat more complex and is considered the most secure TAN procedure by the Sparkasse. It is particularly worthwhile if you make transfers very often and / or the transfer amounts are particularly high.

• In order to be able to participate in the chip TAN procedure, you need the so-called TAN generator and your Sparkassen-Card. You can get the TAN generator in the Sparkassen-Shop for around 19 euros. With the small device you then generate the required TANs yourself.
• Before you buy the TAN generator, you should consider which variant of the chipTAN method you want to use. You have the choice between chipTAN optical, chipTAN QR and chipTAN manual. The chipTAN manual procedure is supported by both TAN generators.
• With the chipTAN optical process, an animated graphic appears on the screen, which you first scan with the TAN generator. The TAN generator for the chipTAN QR procedure scans a QR code that is displayed on your screen.
• The devices can only process one variant at a time, either the flicker or the QR code. On both TAN generators you have the option of entering the data manually in case there are problems with scanning.
• Note: Make sure that you specify the desired variant when registering for the chipTAN process.
• After the necessary preparatory work, it continues relaxed. You prepare your transfer and send it to the Sparkasse. Depending on your choice, an image or a QR code will then appear on your screen.
• Important: Before you scan the code with the TAN generator, insert your Sparkassen-Card into the device.
• After the TAN generator has accepted the data, it first shows you the crucial data of the transfer. If everything is correct, press OK and then you will receive the TAN.
• Finally, enter the TAN in the transfer and release it.

Secure online banking is more important today than ever. In the next post we have put together the best tips for secure online banking,