Secure Your Social Media Passwords Using Multi-factor Verification

Double-step verification, dual-factor authentication, multi-factor authentication…whatever the terminology used by your social media platform, it is an effective method to safeguard your accounts.

Chances are high that you are already employing multi-factor verification with your other accounts — for your banking, financial, credit card details, and numerous other aspects. The inclusion of an additional one-time code along with your login credentials heightens the security against hackers.

The prevalence of this method is increasing, with a variety of online services now requiring a one-time passcode from your email or smartphone for account access. This is where dual-step verification comes into play. You receive a code during your standard login process (typically a six-digit number), which is then entered alongside your username and password.

Some online platforms also present the option to utilize an authenticator application, which delivers the code to a secure app instead of through email or your smartphone. These authenticator apps function similarly but provide three distinct advantages:

• They store the authentication code locally on your device, preventing it from being sent unencrypted via email or text.
• This enhances security in comparison to email- and text-based authentication, which is susceptible to interception.
• They can generate codes for multiple accounts, not limited to your social media account.

Authenticator apps are offered by Google, Microsoft, and other providers if you opt for this route. You can explore various options by viewing the “editor’s picks” at your app store or reliable tech publications.

Regardless of the authentication method chosen, always safeguard the secure code. It should remain confidential to you alone. Should anyone request this code, such as an individual posing as a customer service representative, be cautious as they may be attempting to deceive you. With that code and your username/password combination, unauthorized access to your account is attainable.

Prior to delving into multi-factor verification, let’s discuss passwords

Strong and unique passwords collaborate to enhance your security. Nonetheless, a standard password won’t suffice. Opt for a robust, distinct password complying with the following criteria:

• Robust: A mix of a minimum of 12 uppercase letters, lowercase letters, symbols, and digits. Hackers often search for patterns involving words and numbers. By integrating different types of characters, you disrupt the pattern and fortify your account’s security.
• Distinct: Each of your accounts should possess its unique password. Yes, all of them. Employing a password manager can simplify this process. It creates strong, unique passwords and securely stores them.

Now equipped with robust passwords, proceed to set up multi-factor authentication for your social media accounts.

Multi-factor authentication for Facebook

1. Access your profile picture in the top right corner, then click on Settings and Privacy.
2. Select Settings.
3. Navigate to Accounts Center, then select Password and Security.
4. Opt for Two-factor authentication, followed by selecting the account for updating.
5. Choose your preferred security method and follow the provided instructions.

Upon initiating two-factor authentication on Facebook, you will be prompted to select one of the following security methods:

• Utilizing your security key on a compatible device.
• Receiving login codes from a third-party authentication app.
• Obtaining text message (SMS) codes on your mobile device.

For detailed guidance, refer to the company’s complete tutorial: https://www.facebook.com/help/148233965247823

Multi-factor authentication for Instagram

1. Tap Moreat the lower left corner, then proceed to Settings.
2. Select See more in Accounts Center, followed by Password and Security.
3. Click on Two-factor authentication, and then choose an account.
4. Select a security method and adhere to the on-screen instructions.

When setting up two-factor authentication on Instagram, you will need to choose one of three security methods: an authentication app, text message, or WhatsApp.

For detailed instructions, visit this link: https://help.instagram.com/566810106808145

Multi-factor authentication for WhatsApp

1. Access WhatsApp Settings.
2. Tap Account > Two-step verification > Enable or Establish PIN.
3. Enter a personally chosen six-digit PIN and confirm it.
4. Provide an accessible email address or tap Skip if omitting an email address. (Inclusion of an email address enables reset of two-step verification as needed, bolstering account protection further.
5. Tap Next.
6. Verify the email address and tap Save or Finished.

For a thorough walkthrough, follow this link: https://faq.whatsapp.com/1920866721452534

Multi-factor authentication for YouTube (and other Google accounts)

1. Access your Google Account.
2. In the navigation panel, select Security.
3. Under the section “How you sign in to Google,” opt for 2-Step Verification > Commence setup.
4. Proceed as directed on-screen.

For detailed instructions, visit this link: https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/185839?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop

Multi-factor authentication for TikTok

1. TapProfileat the base of the screen.
2. Click the Menu button at the top.
3. Navigate to Settings and Privacy, then Security.
4. Click 2-step verification and select at least two verification methods: SMS (text), email, and authenticator app.
5. Tap Enable to confirm.

For detailed guidance, visit this link: https://support.tiktok.com/en/account-and-privacy/personalized-ads-and-data/how-your-phone-number-is-used-on-tiktok

The article Secure Your Social Media Passwords Using Multi-factor Verification first appeared on McAfee Blog.