How to Set Up 2 Factor Authentication
We all worry about online security these days because so much of our lives are conducted on the internet. The war between hackers and security experts is ongoing, with no one side declaring victory yet. Luckily, we consumers have some smart security wonks on our side and they came up with a simple, almost foolproof, way of protecting your identity: Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) which has become the gold standard for online security. .
If a site has ever sent a code to your cell phone which you then input online, you’ve used 2FA already
What is the difference between two-factor authentication and two-step authentication?
Two-step authentication is when a site requires a password and a username. Passwords are notoriously insecure. Too many of us use the same passwords for years, and use easily guessable names, dates or numbers. 2FA ups the game by also requiring something only you possess, like your cellphone.
Why 2FA works
2FA authentication increases security by requiring two different forms of identification in order to access something. It requires not only something you know, like your password and username, but something you have, like your cell phone which can be sent a one-time code to authenticate your account. Unless a hacker has your cellphone 2FA is virtually foolproof.
2FA is not only for online sites. It’s used in other ways as well, such as withdrawing money from an ATM. Accessing your account requires both your ATM card and a PIN. Is 2FA really secure for bank accounts? This article will reassure you.
Even gas stations use 2FA to make sure your credit card isn’t stolen. You need both the card (something you possess) and something you know (your PIN or your zip code) to unlock the pump.
2FA is preferable to those senior-unfriendly security questions we all hate. How many of us can remember our first pet or elementary school’s name?
How to set up 2FA on all your devices
Setup for 2FA varies from device to device. In general you go to “settings” then select “security” and then the menu item for “two-step verification.” You can choose a cell phone or email notification for the code to be sent to.
Here’s how to enable 2FA on all your devices.
Here’s more good information about 2FA and setup advice.
Warning! 2FA is not foolproof
2FA can be “phished” or “spoofed” if you respond to a phony site’s request to log in. Hackers twist the site’s name slightly, like using LinkedIn.co instead of .com to trick you. This article explains how to protect yourself.
Interested in personalized content? Sign up for free
Create an account and join our vibrant community to get reminders on classes and unlock a more personalized experience.
Comments
I already know how to use 2-Factor Authentication with a code sent to my cell phone, but I’m unable to find any understandable info about how to use Google Authenticator or similar apps that generate codes every 30 seconds. These apps are even more secure and it’s very annoying not to find a single article explaining how to set them up and use them in plain English.
Hello Olivia. You’re right, using 2FA with an app can be confusing and/or daunting at first. The best way to understand is by practicing it. An agent on the Senior Planet Hotline would be able to guide you through the process. They may not know the exact app you use, but most 2FA apps are similar and they can walk you through the process. The number to the hotline is 888-713-3495.
Nobody made up their own definitions. Go back and read. Or have someone help you, or even get a lawyer. Two-step and 2 Factor are different methods. Two-factor requires something you have, like a phone in addition to a password. Two-step only requires a password,
You are making up your own definitions. 2-step verification is not a password and login. It’s the same as 2 factor, all websites call it 2-step. No one calls it 2-factor, No one!
Hate this nonsense! They are locking people out of accounts who can’t see a cell phone and don’t know how to manage 2 step verification. They don’t care because it doesn’t affect them, yet! The world has kicked elderly people to the curb, and couldn’t care any less. Terrible world we live in today.