Are you worried about a data breach? One of the best ways to secure accounts is with two-factor authentication. Unless a hacker also has access to your physical phone, they won’t be able to take the next step and break into your account. Here’s what to know about securing your identity and using two-step authentication.
How Does Two Factor Authentication Help Keep Your Accounts Secure?
How does two-step authentication work?
Two-factor authentication requires two steps to verify your identity. You can enter your username and password, and then you will receive a code on your physical phone to enter. This two-step process means it’s much harder for hackers to breach your data.
There are also more advanced two-factor ways to secure your account beyond a code sent to your phone, such as with biometric information. This way, your fingerprint or face must be used to authenticate the information.
How do you set up two-factor authentication?
Two-factor authentication is simple to set up on any account, from email to social media profiles, bank accounts, financial services, and more. While no system is foolproof – including two-factor authentication – it is one of the easiest and best ways to secure your personal or work information.
You can set up two-factor authentication with each account, such as Google, Microsoft, or Apple. It’s often as easy as logging into your accounts and then turning on two-factor authentication.
Likewise, many social media apps have two-factor authentication, whether you’re active on LinkedIn, Twitter, Tumblr, Snapchat, or Facebook. The steps to set up authentication differ depending on the site, but the result is the same – a simple way to keep hackers out. Even if they somehow get your username and password, they won’t be able to log into your account with two-factor authentication set up.
In addition, other sites and apps, like Trello, Dropbox, WhatsApp, and more, offer the ability to set up two-factor authentication. If you have sensitive or confidential files in these places, you can rest assured you’re taking the right step to secure these accounts.
What if you lose your phone?
This can be a problem if you’re trying to access an account and don’t have your phone. However, many sites and apps offer backup services if you lose your phone. This includes backup codes you should keep safe or asking you security questions to verify when you talk to a representative who can reset your account.
Learn More About Security Online
If you’re concerned about the safety of your company records, turn to a company like Happy Faces Records Management. We can keep your data and files safe when hackers are trying to access them in this digital age. We also offer secure scanning and document destruction services. Contact us today to get started.
