Imagine that someone is trying to break into your bank account. He has your password and login, but… it's still not enough. The system requires additional identity confirmation – a code SMSthat comes to your phone. This is the essence of two-factor authentication (2FA).
How does it actually work?
It's really simple – apart from your password, you need something else to log in. Most often, it is a code that comes via SMS to your phone. You can also use a special one application on your phone or a small device called a token. In practice, it's just one extra click when logging in, and it protects your data much better.
Not only to the bank
You probably recognize SMS codes from online banking. But two-factor authentication works wherever security is important. Facebook, Gmail – it is worth securing them with an additional layer of protection. Because do you want someone to rummage through your private messages or photos? So start with the most important accounts:
- Email – this is often the key to the rest of your accounts
- Online banking and payment applications
- Social media, especially if you run a company profile there
- Cloud with documents and photos
- Work accounts and remote work platforms
Criminals often impersonate well-known websites. They send e-mails that are confusingly similar to those from your bank or Facebook. Even if you are fooled and enter your password on a fake website, 2FA will save you from being hacked. Because where will the fraudster get the code from your phone?
How to enable it?
Enable 2FA it's a matter of a few clicks. Most websites guide you through the entire process. It's worth writing down the emergency codes – they come in handy if you lose your phone or change your number.
What if you lose your phone?
This is a common concern for users – what will happen if they lose access to the device with the second component? This is why it is worth making an emergency plan in advance. You can generate one-time backup codes (offers this, among others Google) or connect an additional telephone number. Some services also allow verification via voice call – useful when you cannot receive an SMS.