What is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)?

In today's time when cyber crime and online fraud are increasing very rapidly, it has become very important for everyone to strengthen their online security. Logging in by just entering the password is no longer considered safe because hackers can steal the password in different ways. This is why "Two-Factor Authentication" i.e. 2FA is used. This is a technique that gives additional security to your account. Let's understand it in detail and in simple language.

What is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)?
Two-Factor Authentication, called 2FA in short, is an additional security layer that you apply to your account. In this, not only username and password but also another verification method is required to login. That is, even if someone knows your password, he will not be able to login to your account because he will also need another factor (such as OTP or code).

How does 2FA work?

When you turn on 2FA on a website or app, you need to complete two steps to login:

1.First Factor: Your username and password.

2.Second factor: An additional code, OTP, biometric (e.g. fingerprint/face ID) or security token.

Suppose you have set up 2FA on Gmail. After you enter the password, a code is sent to your mobile number or Google Authenticator app. Without entering that code, you cannot login.

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Types of 2FA

1. SMS based OTP – In this, a time-limited 6 digit OTP comes on your mobile number.

2. Authenticator App – like Google Authenticator or Authy, which generates a new code every 30 seconds.

3. Email Verification – Some platforms send a verification code to your email.

4. Biometric Authentication – This uses your fingerprint, face scan or voice recognition.

5. Security Key/Token – A USB or hardware device that is plugged into the system to verify login.

Why is 2FA important?

• Protection from hacking : Even if the password is leaked, hackers will not be able to login.

• Online fraud reduces : Security increases on banking, payment apps and social media.

• Data Protection : Your personal and professional information remains secure.

• Business Security : Companies implement 2FA on their employees' accounts to prevent data theft.

Where should 2FA be used?

• Email accounts like Gmail, Yahoo, Outlook

• Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn

• Paytm, Google Pay, PhonePe, Amazon Pay Payment Apps

• Net Banking Online Shopping Websites

• Cloud Storage ( Google Drive, Dropbox)

Benefits of 2FA

• More security than a password

• Protection against hacking and data theft

• Full control over the account

• Can be easily switched on/off

Some Drawbacks of 2FA

• If you do not have a mobile then you will not get OTP.

• Some Authenticator Apps do not work when there is no internet connection.

• Some people may find it frustrating to enter the code repeatedly.

How to setup 2FA? (Step by Step)

1. First of all go to the Settings of your account.

2. Choose the option of Security or Privacy.

3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).

4. Now you have to choose which method you want to do verification (SMS, Email or App).

5. Once setup, whenever you login, you will have to enter the OTP/Code followed by the password.

Conclusion
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is one of the most important security technologies of today. It gives double layer security to your account and protects it from hacking, fraud and password theft. Whether you use social media or banking, 2FA should be applied everywhere. Remember – just password is not enough now, 2FA is the key to real security.