You’ll have to open the authenticator app on your phone, which will display the code. When signing in to an account (say, email or Facebook), you’ll first enter your username and password, then you’ll be prompted to enter the authenticator code. They are a secure form of 2FA to prove it really is you logging in to an account. Read more: How to choose a security question How do authenticator apps work?Īuthentication apps generate single-use pass codes on your phone that expire within seconds. Think of it like this: someone steals your keys and attempts to break into your house, only to find that they also need to enter a pass code at the door. Multi-factor authentication provides a major security boost to any of your online accounts, especially if your password is compromised. Why is multi-factor authentication important? Other forms of authentication can include the use of biometrics or a hardware key. This extra credential is generally a one-time code that is provided via an SMS, email, or authentication app and only lasts for a short period of time. This means that in addition to using your username and password, you need to provide an extra credential in order to verify your identity. Two-factor authentication (2FA), or multi-factor authentication (MFA), is a multi-step security process for authenticating your identity in order to log into an online account. While the vast majority of authenticator apps perform the exact same functions, we found the best free authentication apps that strike a balance between excellent security, functionality, and device compatibility. All you need to do is install a free app and connect it to your various accounts.

But one of the easiest and most secure ways to prove you’re you is authenticator apps. Some people buy a hardware key (a kind of USB stick).

You could get a one-time code sent to your phone. There are many forms of two-factor authentication (2FA) out there.

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