Cyber security has become a major concern and having your data safe is a priority for any account. To secure your data you can protect your account by enabling two-factor authentication.
Two-step authentication is a security layer that requires a second form of verification beyond your password to get access to your account.
How can you enable two-step authentication?
1. Choose two-step authentication
The first thing that should be kept in mind is the kind of two-factor authentication method that suits you. Authenticator apps like Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator, and many more generate time-sensitive codes that secure your account easily. Other ways like SMS verification or hardware tokens can also help you provide your account with the highest level of security.
2. Enable 2FA on your account
Firstly, log in to your account and navigate to security or account settings where you will find an option for enabling two-factor authentication. When you follow the prompt to link your preferred method to your account you can you can enable your account’s two-factor authentication.
Extra tips for secure 2FA usage
1. Reliability
Reliability of the authenticator app that you are using is necessary. Install trusted apps like Google Authenticator which is straightforward and secure, or Authy which offers multi-device support and encrypted cloud backup, or Microsoft Authenticator which is ideal for Microsoft accounts and their general uses.
2. Save backup codes
Your two-factor authentication is as secure as the device it is on, meaning that enabling of strong security lock or encryption on your smartphone is equally important as having your account’s two-factor authentication. By avoiding installing apps from unverified sources and regularly updating your devices to patch vulnerabilities you will be able to protect your device.
4. Avoid SMS for sensitive account
SMS is the most commonly used factor authentication method. However, it is vulnerable to attacks like SIM swapping, making it harder for you to retrieve previous account information. For critical accounts like banking or emails, you can opt for an authenticator app or a hardware token instead to make it more reliable.
What to do if you lose your two-factor authentication device?
Having a backup code is important for times like when you are device get stolen. By using your backup course you can regain access to your account. You can also contact the platform’s customer support if you can’t use backup codes. You can also immediately disable two-factor authentication on the lost device and set it up on a new one.
Two-factor authentication or two-step authentication is essential as it provides an extra layer of production and significantly reduces your chance of getting unauthorized access.