Two-factor authentication is sometimes also referred to as ‘multi-factor authentication’, as there can be more than two factors involved in the login process. For example, some bank apps also require you to have a PIN code as well as the code generated by the app.
What is two-factor authentication?
Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security that can be added to an account login. Instead of just entering a password, the user also enters a code that is generated by an app on their phone. This code changes every 30 seconds, so even if a hacker managed to get hold of your password, they wouldn’t be able to login to your account as they wouldn’t have the code.
Adding two-factor authentication to your account can help to protect you from hacking and fraud, as it makes it much harder for someone to gain access to your account. Even if they managed to get hold of your password, they wouldn’t be able to login unless they also had your phone.
Best combination is when you have strong password (How to create a strong password?) and two-factor authentication.
If you’re worried about the security of your online accounts, setting up two-factor authentication is a good way to help protect yourself. It’s quick and easy to do, and it could save you a lot of hassle in the long run.
We’ve written an article How to turn on two-factor authentication? if you would like to know how to enable 2FA.