Reasons to Use Two Step Verification

Posted: July 19, 2016

[caption id="attachment_12767" align="alignright" width="431"] Image from pcworld.com[/caption] Security is a major concern in today's digital world, thanks to hackers that can potentially access any type of account. The good news is that most accounts offer two-step verification to help keep your accounts safe. Although two-step verification can seem like a hassle, it's still recommended to add an extra level of protection against hackers. Lincoln Spector, editor for PC World, shares why two-step verification is an important step in staying secure.

Why you should use two-step verification even if it's a hassle

Yes, it can be hacked. But you're still far safer with it than without it. Two-step verification—also known as 2-factor authentication and login approvals—adds a significant layer of security to any Internet-based service. That’s why Google, Microsoft, Facebook, Twitter, and many other services use it. When you set up 2-step verification (2SV) on a website, you have to give an alternative way for the service to contact you—for instance, your cellphone number. Once set up, if you log onto the service on a new PC, browser, or device, entering your login name and password is just the first step. Once that’s done, the service will send you a unique code—for instance, sending a text—that allows you to log in. You don’t have to use a cellphone. 2SV systems often provide additional contact options, such as email, a voice call, or a mobile app. You can see how this provides greater protection. A hacker who has acquired your login name and password still can’t log on as you—unless they’ve also stolen your cellphone. Read the entire article Why You Should Use Two-Step Verification Even if it's a Hassle on PC World.