Two factor authentication (2FA) has become a critical element in maintaining internet security so we need to understand.

Two factor authentication is a security method that requires two forms of identification to access an account (also known as “two-step verification”, “multi-factor authentication”, and “dual factor authentication”).

How it works: step 1: you provide a password when logging in (1st factor). Step 2: you provide a second identifier (2nd factor) such as a security token, a fingerprint or a facial scan. An early way to provide this second identifier was to receive a text message containing a 6 digit code. Unfortunately, interception of these codes has become commonplace resulting in compromised accounts. A more secure methodology is to use an authenticator app.

An authenticator app is an app downloaded to your phone. Examples are https://www.lastpass.com/ and https://1password.com/. (You can find them in your app store). The process is to 1) download the app; 2) create an account and login; 3) select an account to be protected. If that account offers authenticator-based security, you’ll be presented a QR code to scan with your phone’s camera. Once scanned, select the “open in…” option. The account will ask you for the 6 digit code being displayed in that new app you just downloaded. Enter the code. The account will open.

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