Over time, you have become a regular online shopper. You appreciate the convenience, saving you both time and travel. You also love social media. You enjoy being able to keep up with friends and family who you rarely see. Online activity is a daily event for you, but you are becoming more and more concerned about keeping your online accounts safe. Does this sound like you? If so, you are not alone.
Did you know that many web sites offer another layer of protection to keep your information safe and all you must do is turn it on? Two-step verification is available and simply requires you to enter a rotating code as a second step when logging in. This is like having a second lock on your account. For someone to gain access to your information, they must access both your password and the rotating code. This will take more time and effort and, often, is enough to deter the hacker into giving up.
Whenever you create an account and 2-factor authentication or verification is offered, consider turning it on. If you have existing online accounts and you have not activated 2-step verification, visit your account settings and turn on 2-step verification. Follow the steps on screen to complete the process. You will be asked to download an authenticator app such as Google or Microsoft Authenticator — if you don’t already have one. These apps can be found in your device’s approved app store.
As an example, Amazon is a retailer who offers 2-step verification. All you must do is turn it on. Here’s how:
- Go into your account and select Login and Security.
- You will see Two-Step Verification Settings listed. Click the Edit button.
- Click Get Started. On-screen instructions will then guide you through the process.
*Complete directions are also available on their site to assist you.
Facebook is another popular site that offers the option for a second layer of security. Just like Amazon, 2-Factor authentication is turned off by default so you will need to turn this on in your settings. Here’s how:
- Go into your Profile Settings. Find Privacy Center.
- Choose Security.
- Click on the question, “How can we further secure your account?” Choose Facebook and then 2-Factor Authentication.