Learn how to enable two-factor authentication on Twitter for enhanced account security. Simple steps and added benefits explained.
Here’s a summarized, tabular form of the steps to enable two-factor authentication on Twitter using an app:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Go to: Settings and Support > Settings and Privacy > Security and account access > Security > Two-factor authentication |
| 2 | Click on Authentication app, enter your password, then click Get started |
| 3 | Scan the QR code displayed using your authenticator app |
| 4 | Enter the 6-digit code from the authenticator app in Twitter’s popup box |
Browser
- On the left side, click Moreand then Settings and privacy
- Click Account
- Go to Security
- Enter two-step authentication
- There are three possibilities to activate the feature: SMS, authentication application or security key
Android or iOS app
- In the top left corner, touch the account profile photo
- In the menu tap Settings and privacy
- Touch Account
- Touch Security
- Go to Two-step authentication
- Although the same 3 possibilities appear, only SMS and authentication application work in this case
Once you get to the authentication options on your browser or mobile phone, let’s see how each one is configured.
SMS
When selecting the text message option, the process requires you to enter your password and select Verify. If your number is not yet associated with the social network, a notification will be sent to you to do so.
After completing the first step, enter the confirmation code that was sent by SMS. Twitter recommends that the confirmation screen be captured so that the information can be accessed in case the phone is lost or a number is changed.
From the activation of authentication by this means, whenever you access your account, a 6-digit code will be sent by message and you must enter it to complete the login.
Authentication application
After selecting the corresponding option, click start and if necessary enter your password and click Verify. The means used to link the authentication app to your Twitter account will be a QR code.
The authentication applications are varied, but you can use any one-time password, such as Google Authenticator, Authy, Duo Mobile, among others.
After scanning the QR, select Next, enter the code generated in the application and select Check.
With this option enabled, you will access your account from the codes provided by the authentication application.
Security key
You must have enabled one of the two previous authentication methods to use that method. Click the security key, then click Start. Then insert the physical key into the computer’s USB port, touch it and follow the instructions.
Enabling browser 2-step verification requires a temporary password to access the account. If the need for the password is detected it will be sent by SMS to you, but you can generate yours in the option: two-step authentication, then Additional methods and Temporary password.
Benefits of Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication offers several benefits in terms of account security. Here are a few key advantages:
- Enhanced security: With two-factor authentication, even if your password gets compromised, an attacker still cannot access your account without the unique verification code.
- Protection from phishing attacks: Two-factor authentication provides protection against phishing attempts, where attackers try to trick you into revealing your login credentials through fraudulent websites or emails.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that your Twitter account is protected by an additional layer of security allows you to use the platform without worrying about unauthorized access.
- Prevention of unauthorized changes: Two-factor authentication also helps prevent unauthorized changes to your account settings and personal information.
In conclusion, enabling two-factor authentication on Twitter is a simple yet crucial step towards securing your account. By following the aforementioned steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of hacking attempts and unauthorized access. Stay safe and enjoy using Twitter with peace of mind!
