Google Simplifies Two-Factor Authentication Process

Google changed the authentication verification system (photo: dock. Google)

JAKARTA Google is updating the two-factor authentication process (2FA) to keep Google's account safe. The company makes the 2 Step Verification (2SV) system simpler and easier to activate.

Previously, users had to enter a phone number when they wanted to activate 2FA. Now, users don't need to use a phone number because they can use Google Authenticator as a second step method. Users can also use a hardware security key. This method is much safer than waiting for SMS verification. Apart from being vulnerable to being exploited by cybercriminals, the use of a phone number also takes a lot of time. Meanwhile, users who activate a hardware security key will have two 2SV options that can be selected via the Password Lock and Security Key page. These two options are related to the use of a password. The first option, namely Use a Security Key, will register the first Fast Identity Online (FIDO1) credentials on a security key. The next option is to Create Password Lock to use other devices.

This second option will register the FIDO2 credentials on the security key. Therefore, users must use a key PIN to perform local verification. This method will create a code key in the security key. All users can disable the 2SV system from account settings, but the second step that has been registered, such as the backup code, Google Authenticator, or the second factor phone number, will not be deleted automatically.