What Is Two-Factor-Authentication?
Two-Factor-Authentication (also known as 2FA) is a strongly recommended method of adding an extra level of security around your important online accounts. With the increasingly sophisticated methods of hacking all online users need to be aware of their online security - financial hacking, identity theft/cloning and compromised devices are all real risks.
Some websites force you to connect your logon details to your phone, and so have forced your through the Two-Factor Authentication as part of signing up, for example your online bank account? However unfortunately most have 2FA as an optional security measure hidden in your settings.
Two-Factor-Authentication is not 100% secure proof, but it is a real step forward, and wherever available you are STRONGLY recommended to turn it on. Consider for a minute the implications if someone assumed your identity, or accessed your email account. Then keep thinking - its serious! So read on ...
This short article has already succeeded because you're now thinking about how you would feel if a hacker got access to your bank accounts, your emails, your social media and contacts, house security - and more!
Image credit: Apple.com 2FA
2FA In Short
In addition to the normal username/email address and associated password, a two-factor-authentication protected website prompts for a PIN code to be entered, which is created in realtime and sent by phone text, email or by App.
You enter the PIN code and logon, with the device (phone/tablet etc) being used are remembered for future visits. You are then only re-prompted if you use a different device, or after a pre-determined period eg two weeks.
So a future hacker attempt needs your logon email/password details AND access to your phone.
So on all your Apps or key websites, always look out for options to use two-factor-authentication, and find the SETTINGS and SECURITY and check all available options.
Below we've listed some key platforms that offer two-factor-authentication, and which you really should revisit and update your security settings as soon as possible. We hope it helps you, and don't forget to share with your friends.
Websites With 2FA Available
Amazon - Amazon Guide
Apple ID iPhone & iPad - Apple Guide
Box - Box Guide
Dropbox - Dropbox Guide
Facebook - Facebook Guide
GoDaddy - GoDaddy Guide
Google (Chrome, Gmail & YouTube etc) - Google Guide
Instagram - Instagram Guide
LinkedIn - LinkedIn Guide
Microsoft - Microsoft Guide
Outlook & Hotmail - MS Guide
PayPal - PayPal Guide
Ring Doorbell & Cameras - Ring Guide
Slack - Slack Guide
Snapchat - Snapchat Guide
TikTok - TikTok Guide
Twillio - Twillio Guide
Twitter - Twitter Guide
WhatsApp Messaging - WhatsApp Guide
WordPress - WordPress Guide
Yahoo - Yahoo Guide
Good articles to read:
Can I be hacked, even with 2FA turned on?
Download Google Authenticator App - Apple App Store and Android Play Store
This short article is provided simply to help minimise risk from hackers, and is part of our Web & IT Services. These are offered as complementary services to our WiFi partner businesses, and have been developed as additional support during the challenging COVID-19 impacted 2020 year.
You are welcome to contact us, and we'll do whatever we can to help. Contact WiFi Partners.
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