Why 2FA safety is important? How to Implement on Popular Platforms

What is 2FA

We conduct online transactions, engage on social media, and share personal information across various platforms, making it easier for cybercriminals to clone your online identity. However, using 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) across all your accounts creates an additional layer of protection, enhancing your security.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a process that verifies your identity in two distinct ways before granting system access. It requires users to provide a one-time code, accessible only to them, or biometric data as the second factor. 2FA operates by asking users to provide something they know (like a password) and something they possess (like a code or biometric data).

The steps for implementing 2FA can be simple.

Something you know: PIN or Password.
Something you have: A device
Something you Are:

Some common methods

The most common way to implement 2FA is through an SMS token. Other methods include email tokens, hardware tokens, software tokens, biometrics, and even phone calls. You might also receive a push notification on your mobile device to authenticate the platform, which could contain a one-time password (OTP). In some cases, more advanced 2FA systems may require fingerprint scans, facial recognition, or retina scans for added security.

Is 2FA is foolProof security

While 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts, it is not foolproof. If your phone, which stores your 2FA codes, is stolen, your security can still be compromised. Cybercriminals can even intercept OTPs and push notifications in some cases. Additionally, hackers use automated tools to attempt to break into accounts, meaning 2FA is just one of several important steps in protecting your online safety.

But it is effective in many cases. Here are simple steps for to implement 2FA on popular platforms.

How to Implement 2FA on Popular Platforms

1. Google

The primary step is to open the browser and go to the Google Account.

Sign in.
Click on Security on the left-hand menu.
You can find Signing in to Google here when scrolling.
Locate the 2-Step Verification.
Choose the process you prefer and set it up.
You will be asked to verify by entering the code sent by Google.

2. On Apple ID (For iPhone, iPad)

For iPhone, iPad
Go to the Device Settings.
Tap on your name at the top of Settings menu.
Click on Password and Security.
There you will find Two-Factor Verification, tap to turn on.
You will be asked for verification via text message or phone call.

For Mac:

Navigate to find the Apple logo on top left of the screen.
Select System Settings and Apple ID.
choose Password and Security from the side menu.
Enable Two-Factor Verification.

3. Facebook

To start the process, log in to your account via an app or browser.
You will find a download arrow on your desktop, click and select Settings and Privacy.
On mobile, three horizontal line menu will lead to Settings and Privacy, where you can find Settings.
Here find Security and Login.
Scroll down to Two-factor authentication.
Select your preferred 2FA method.

4. Instagram

After you have launched the app on your device, tap on your profile icon.
There is a three-line horizontal menu.
Scroll down to locate Settings.
Select Security and find 2FA.
Choose the preferred way of authentication either via SMS or authentication app.

5. Twitter

Go to the official website and log into your account on your desktop.
Find three dots, click on the More option to get to Settings and Privacy.
On mobile, tap on profile picture to get to Settings and Privacy.
Find the account access and click on Security.
After clicking on Two-Factor Authentication, choose from a text message, authentication app, or security key as a second factor.
Once 2FA is enabled, you will be asked for the second step each time you log in from a new device.

6. Microsoft Accounts

Go to the website and log in.
Navigate to the Security tab and scroll down to Two-Factor Authentication.
Click on Set up.
You will be asked to choose from:
Authentication app (download the app): Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator, or other apps.
SMS (enter the phone number): Receive a code.
Email: A backup email for receiving codes.
Recovery codes will help if the device is lost.

7. Dropbox

Visit the Dropbox website and log in.
On the profile picture select Settings from the dropdown menu.
In the Menu select Security.
Find and enable Two-Step Verification.
Choose the verification method.
Enter the verification code.
Once the feature is enabled, Dropbox will provide backup codes.

8. Snapchat

Launch the app on the device and tap on your profile icon.
Go to Settings.
Scroll down and select 2FA.
Turn the function on and opt the desired method.
After the method is verified, 2 FA will be enabled for the account.
You may also receive codes for account recovery.

9. LinkedIn

Sign-in to your account.
Select Me icon or profile picture at homepage.
Click Privacy and Settings.
Click on Account preferences in the left sidebar.
Find 2FA here and click on Change.
You might be asked to enter password for security.
Choose a method for receiving codes.
Enter the code and Verify.

10. Amazon

Find the Accounts and Lists.
Click Your Account and scroll down to the Account Settings.
Find Login and Security and click Edit next to 2SV.
Select Get Started to begin the process.
Choose the preferred method and if you choose SMS, enter your contact number and receive the code.
If you choose the authenticator app, follow the instructions till you get the code.
A list of backup codes will be sent, select Finish.