Two-Factor Authentication: How it can save your data December 21, 2019 – Posted in: Cyber Security, News – Tags: Cyber Security
Two-Factor Authentication: How it can save your data
The security of important data is the ultimate priority of any individual or the business itself. Most often this protection is done through passwords which can be effortlessly cracked by hackers with adequate time and computing power. To fight this chink in the armour, Google decided to offer its users a service called two-factor authentication (2FA) to keep their data protected.
Two-Factor Authentication?
If a user has activated two-factor authentication, the user is first required to enter in the password (as set by him/her to access a service) supported by the second level of the passcode. This second passcode can be any of the following:
- A randomly generated number sent from the service provider to the designated device via text or email
- A random question, the answer to which is only known to you
- An advanced scan of your retina or fingerprint
Only if this second obstacle is crossed will you be granted access to the service or else you will be locked out until your identity can be confirmed.
Google’s very advanced Two-Factor Authentication
It’s extremely recommended that you use two-factor authentication to log in to your many Google accounts. This way, no new-found device will be able to log into any of your accounts. Google offers numerous options as a part of its two-factor verification system:
Allocate a key device
It’s a very simple process and can be done with these quick easy steps:
- Settings > Google > Google Account
- Click on the Security tab
- Click 2-Step Verification and login
- Update your recovery phone number and/or email in-case you need to salvage your account
You’re now on the two-factor authentication page. Here, you will be able to see a list of devices linked to your account. Select the device you favour and choose the option of using a text message or voice call. Enter your phone number. Google will send you a randomly generated passcode to verify that the number belongs to you. You can turn on the two-factor verification for your account.
Creating a Google prompt
Alternatively, you can additionally choose to set-up Google prompt. This allows Google to deliver you a notification on your phone every time you try to sign in from an unknown device or location.
Using an advanced security key
Security keys are presented to users who enrol for the Google Advanced Protection plan. A user is needed to purchase two security keys; one main and one more for back-up.
The keys can either be purchased from Google (Titan Security Key Bundle) or third-party providers such as Yubico or Feitian. Once the keys are obtained, they are to be registered with the chosen Google account. Once you enable this protection suite, all other measures are turned off. So, if you lose your key or leave it at home, there is no way at all to access the account.
We highly recommend 2FA
All in all, it is highly recommended to make the most out of two-factor authentication to keep your security tight and to stay safe.
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