Two-factor authentication is an underutilized security measure in businesses, yet it can greatly improve the security of an account. it is also recommended as one of the key factors in helping keep data secure in compliance with GDPR. Receiving an extra code to your phone when signing in, is a great obstacle for would-be hackers to overcome, if they try to gain unauthorised access to your account and everything it contains.
So why are so few people using it then?
Well, most commonly we receive the answer that users don’t really understand it and it’s too complicated to set up. But it’s really not! Just follow these simple steps and enjoy additional security:
Step 1: Go to https://myaccount.google.com/ and log in
Step 2: Click on “Sign-in & security”
Step 3: Scroll down and click on the “2-Step Verification” option
Step 4: Click on “Get Started”
Step 5: Enter the phone number tied to a phone you wish to use as your 2-Factor Authentication device and then select if you would prefer to receive a phone call or text message with your sign in code, then click “next”.
Step 6: You will then be called or text a code to that number, enter the number in the box provided.
Step 7: Google will then confirm that it worked, click the “Turn on” button
And that’s it, you are now set up for 2-Factor Authentication on your google account. If you scroll down on this page you can also set up a backup phone number in case you lose your device, which is highly recommended to do.
Tell your friends! Enjoy safer technology.
written by Lorna Mayers & Urban Schrott, ESET Ireland
ESET Ireland 