Once you’ve successfully registered your security key as a second-factor device for your login, here is how logins work:Įnter your username and password, as always.

The setup process for each will vary slightly, but in each case, you’ll need to research how to set up two-factor authentication and follow the provided instructions. Security keys work with hundreds of online account services, including Google’s Gmail, Facebook, Twitter, and Dropbox. Using a security key to protect your online accounts Security keys are considered superior and more secure because they verify transactions over the internet, whereas phone-based passcodes do so over landlines, which are much easier to hack. Once you log in, a series of numbers is sent to your phone that you must enter after your password to gain access. Phone-based passcodes are another form of multi-factor authentication. The most secure form of two-factor authentication is with a separate physical device, and the gadgets dedicated to the task are known as security keys. In other cases, users can use smartphone apps as a second-factor device, so they can confirm logins with a single tap. For example, many banks use SMS-based 2FA, and text you a numeric code to enter to access your account after you’ve entered your password. In a 2FA transaction, after entering your username and password, you’re prompted to confirm the access request through a different medium. Two-factor authentication creates another safeguard beyond your password.

Thankfully, the web security industry has created a new standard that anyone can use to protect their online accounts from unwanted intrusions: two-factor authentication (often referred to as 2FA). Sophisticated attacks and unexpected data breaches are so commonplace now that if you want to stay safe, you’ll need to take additional measures. Unfortunately, a password is no longer enough. As we move more and more of our personal information into the cloud for convenience, it becomes increasingly important to make sure that our data is secure.

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