What is Two-Factor Authentication and How Does it Work?

There are a number of ways that you can protect yourself online, and one of the things you can do is to start using two-factor authentication.

You probably have seen two-factor authentication even if you aren't sure what it is. For instance, if you do online banking, your bank might text a code to your phone or email when you try to change the password. This is two-factor authentication. It's basically just an extra step that confirms that you are the account owner. This makes it more difficult for hackers to get into your account, too. Not only do they need a password, they also need access to your smart phone or email account.

These Critical Websites need Two Step Authentication

Most large websites have the option for two-factor authentication. Each company name is linked to their specific instruction. Here's how to set it up:

Apple ID

You can use two-factor authentication on your iCloud, iPhone or iPad:

• Click on "Settings," "Security," and then "Turn on two-factor authentication."
• Enter a phone number
• Look at your text, enter the code, and you are good to go

Facebook

• Log into your Facebook account. Click on "Settings," "Security and Login."
• Choose "Use two-factor authentication," and then click "edit."
• Select the method. There are several options including texts, apps, and code generators.
• Follow the instructions shown on the screen.
• Click "Enable."

Gmail

You can set up two-factor authentication for Gmail and Google accounts.

• Navigate to the Google page for two-step authentication.
• Click "Get started."
• Follow on-screen instructions to turn the feature on.

Yahoo

• Sign into your account
• Click "Account security."
• Look for "two-step verification," and make sure it's "on."
• Enter your phone number, and choose text message or phone call
• Enter the code, and then click on "Verify."

Instagram

If you use Instagram, you can also set up two-factor authentication:

• Log into your account on Instagram.
• Navigate to your profile and choose your operating system.
• Scroll down until you see "two-factor authentication."
• Click on "require security code."
• Enter a phone number if one is not there. Click "Next."
• You will get a code to your phone. Enter it, and then click "Next."

Twitter

If you use Twitter, you can also set up two-factor authentication. However, there are different steps to take depending on how you access the site, either from a laptop or PC, an iPhone, or an Android. You can learn about setting two-factor authentication up by visiting the Help Center.

Here are a few more important sites that require a more in-depth explanation:

Linkedin

Paypal

Ebay