India, Aug. 1 -- The Social Security Administration (SSA) will introduce a new multi-factor authorization policy starting mid-August. The agency plans to roll out a new Security Authentication Pin (SAP) to protect beneficiaries' personal accounts. Initially, the move drew sharp criticism from advocates who suggested that the in-person visits required to facilitate such a shift would put people with disabilities, senior citizens, and rural communities at risk of being left out. However, the SSA has provided clarification in this regard.

In response to concerns, the agency confirmed that in-office visits would not be mandatory for those willing to opt into the SSA's latest security provision. "The filing with OMB will be amended to clarify...