Google just launched a new, secured login for Gmail and other Google services. Google calls the process two-step verification. It is intended to reassure those who believe they need more than a mere password standing between their online data and the cyber-thieves of the world.
“Two-step verification requires two independent factors for authentication, much like you might see on your banking Web site: your password, plus a code obtained using your phone,” explains Google product manager Nishit Shah in a blog post.
Why you should use 2-step verification
2-step verification adds an extra layer of security to your Google Account by requiring you to have access to your phone – as well as your username and password – when you sign in. This means that if someone steals or guesses your password, the potential hijacker still can’t sign in to your account because they don’t have your phone.
The set-up process isn’t ridiculously onerous, but it isn’t drop-dead easy either. Google suggests setting everything up may take 15 minutes. Thoughtfully, users aren’t entirely on their own: Google provides a set-up wizard to guide people through the necessary steps.
While 2-step verification requires some web savvy, you only need a few basic items:
So you’re ready to make your account more secure? The next step is to see if your account is eligible for 2-step verification yet. To do this, go to your Accounts settings page and look for the Using 2-step verification link. If you have the link, you can click it and start the setup process.
If you do not see the link:
This post was last modified on August 14, 2016 1:40 pm