If you aren't already protecting your personal accounts with two-factor or two-step verification, you should. An extra line of defense that is stronger than the strongest password, 2FA is critical to preventing hacks and attacks on your personal data. If you don't understand what this is, we've broken everything down for you.
What is this feature?
Two-factor authentication is essentially a combination of the following two factors.
1. Something You Know
You have something
anything
What you know is your password, so 2FA always starts there. Once your password is entered, instead of entering your account, you need another set of credentials for two-factor authentication, such as when the DMV wants your license and utility bill. That is why factors 2 and 3 work. What you have is your phone or other device, while some are in your face, eyes, or fingerprints. If you cannot provide verification beyond password alone, you will not be allowed into the service you are trying to log in to.
So there are several options for the second factor: SMS, Authenticated Apps, Bluetooth-, USB-, and NFC-based security keys, and biometrics. So let's take a look at your options so you can decide which one is best for you.
Message
How to set it up:By default, almost every two factor authentication system uses SMS, so there is nothing more than toggling a selected account or switching on to switch 2FA. Depending on the app or service, if you have the tab, under Security, you'll find it in Settings. Once activated you will need to enter your password and a mobile phone number.
How it works:
When you turn on SMS-based verification, you'll receive a text-by-code code that you need to enter after typing your password. This prevents anyone else from accidentally logging into your account because your password is just useless without a code. Although some apps and services rely solely on SMS-based 2FA, many of them offer a variety of options, even if SMS is selected by default.How it's safe:
By definition, SMS authentication is the least secure method of two-factor authentication. While your phone may be cloned or stolen directly, SMS messages can be intercepted and, by nature, most default messaging apps are not encrypted. The code you are sending to you may be in the hands of someone other than you. However, this problem is unlikely unless you are a valuable target.
How it's safe:
Most likely, you're always accessing your phone, so second verification is very easy, especially if the account you're signing in to is on your phone.
Do you use it?
Verifying any two factor is better than none, but if you are serious about security, SMS won't cut it.
Author APPS
what's this:
Like SMS-based two-factor authentication, authentic apps generate codes that need input when prompted. However, instead of sending them over unencrypted SMS, they are built into an app, and you don't need an internet connection.
How to set it up:
To get started with a verification app, you'll need to download it from the Play Store or App Store. Google Authenticator works great for your Google Account and everything you use to log it in, but there are other great people too, including Ethereum, ListPass, Microsoft, and many other individuals. Companies, such as Blizzard, Sophos and Salesforce. If an app or service supports authentic apps, it will provide a QR code that you can scan or enter on your phone.
How it works:
When you open the authenticated app you choose and scan the code, figure 6 code will appear, just like with SMS 2FA. Insert this code into the app and you'll love it. After the initial setup, you will be able to enter the app to receive the code whenever you need it without scanning the QR code.
How it's safe:
Unless someone else has access to your phone or whatever device is running your authentic app, it's completely safe. Since the codes are randomized in the app and not given over SMS, there is no way to steal them. For added security, Ethereum also lets you set up PIN and password protection, in addition, something Google doesn't offer on its authenticated app.
How it's safe:
Although opening an app is a bit easier than a text message, it takes more than a few seconds to use authentic apps. They are much safer than SMS, and you can use them offline if you ever run into a case where you need the code but you have no connection.
Do you use it?
An authentic app strikes the sweet spot between security and convenience. Although you may find services that don't support authentic apps, most people do.
Universal Second Factor (Security Key)
what's this:
Unlike SMS- and Certified-based 2FAs, the Universal Second Factor is actually a way to protect your accounts 'something you have'. Instead of digital codes, the second factor is the key to physical security. You will need to order a physical key to use it, which will connect to your phone via USB, NFC or Bluetooth. You can buy Ubiko Ubiqui 5ub 42 at fave.co/2Q09lYo. If you're going to use it by phone, a NFC-powered key is recommended.
How to set it up:
Setting up a security key is basically the same as other ways, except you'll need a computer. You need to turn on two-factor authentication, and then select 'Security Key' if it is available. Most popular accounts, such as Twitter, Facebook, and Google all support security keys, so your most vulnerable accounts should be configured. However, while Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft's Edge browsers support security keys, Apple's Safari browser does not, so you will be prompted to switch during setup.
Once you reach the Security Settings page for the service with which you are enabling 2FA, select the Security Key, and follow the prompts. You will be asked to enter your key (so make sure you have a USB-C adapter if you have a MacBook) and press the button on it. This will start connecting to your computer, pairing your key, and your account is ready in a few seconds.
How it works:
Advanced protection works the same way as security except that you won't be able to choose a different way if you forget or lose your security key.
How it's safe:
Google Advanced Protection is essentially unforgiving. Relying solely on security keys ensures that no one will be able to access your account without both your password and physical key, which is extremely unlikely.
How it's safe:
By nature, Google Advanced Protection is supposed to make it difficult for hackers to access your Google Account and everything associated with it, so by nature, it's not that easy for the user. ۔ Since there is no fallback authentication method, you will need to remember your key each time you leave the house. And when you run across a roadblock - like the Safari browser on a Mac - your luck is high. But if you want the best possible protection for your account, don't accept any alternatives.
Biometric
what's this:
A password-free world where services and apps are verified via fingerprints or face scans.
How to set it up:
When you choose to use the fingerprint scanner on your phone or Face ID, you can see the biometrics in the works, but only after you've logged in and been able to confirm via the second 2FA method. Afterwards biometric security is much more than just changing your password.
How it works:
Like the way you use your fingerprint or face to unlock your smartphone, Biometric 2FA uses unique features of your body, like your password. So your Google Account will know that you are based on your scan when you set up your account, and that it automatically allows access when you have identified it.
How it's safe:
Since it is extremely difficult to clone your fingerprint or face, biometric authentication is the closest thing to a digital vault.
How it's safe:
You can't go anywhere without your fingerprint or face, so it's never been easier.
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