Whether it’s a social networking app or your email account, two-factor authentication is a must. It prevents hackers from accessing your account. Of the several methods for 2FA, SMS-based authentication is the simplest. But unfortunately for all Twitter users, it is now a paid feature exclusively for Twitter Blue subscribers. But if you don’t want to pay, we’ll show you how to enable Twitter two-factor authentication for free.
In fact, the decision to phase out SMS-based 2FA for non-Blue subscribers was a stroke of luck in disguise. This is because it is the most basic and insecure form of 2FA. We recommend that Twitter Blue subscribers also switch from SMS-based 2FA to an app-based two-factor authentication system. This article will demonstrate how you can do that.
What is two-factor authentication (2FA)?
All online services require you to log in with your email ID/phone number and password. While this is secure, someone else can easily log into your account if they guess or know your password. Hackers can also break into your account this way.
To prevent that from happening, you can use two-factor authentication or 2FA. It adds an extra layer of security before logging into your account. Along with your password, 2FA requires you to enter a one-time password (OTP) that is only sent to your device. This way, someone with your password will still not be able to log into your account without it.
How to set up two-factor authentication on Twitter with authenticator
As mentioned earlier, SMS-based 2FA is not the safest way to keep your account secure. What if you lose your phone? Someone can remove the SIM card and put it in another device to get your OTP. SIM swap scams are also quite common these days.
So the best way is to use an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy. It’s completely free and you won’t have to pay $11 per month for Mr. Musk either.
Here’s how to set up an authenticator for 2FA on Twitter.
Install and set up Authy
Step 1: Download the Authenticator app of your choice from the App Store or Google Play Store. We recommend using Authy or Google Authenticator as a verification code generator.
We will use Authy to demonstrate the process in this article. However, the steps for Google Authenticator are similar if you choose to use it.
Step 2: Open the Authy app on your phone. Register on the app with your phone number. Then add your email ID.
Step 3: You will be asked to verify your account. Choose your preferred method and proceed.
You have now successfully set up Authy on your device. It’s time to link Twitter with Authy for 2FA.
Choose Authy as Default Authenticator App on iOS
Note: If you are using an Android phone, move on to the next section of the article. This is purely for iPhone users.
iCloud Keychain is the default authentication app on iOS. So you will have to change it to Authy to set up two-factor authentication on Twitter. Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Navigate to the Passwords section.
Step 2: Continue to the Password Options section right at the top.
Step 3: In the “Set up a verification code using” section, select Authy.
It’s time to complete the 2FA process through the Twitter app.
Twitter Link with Authy
Step 1: Open the Twitter app on your phone. Tap your profile picture in the top left corner of the app.
Step 2: Select ‘Settings and Support’. Then select the ‘Settings and Privacy’ option.
Step 3: Navigate to the ‘Account access and security’ tab. Then go to the Security section.
Step 4: Select the “Two-Factor Authentication” menu right at the top. Turn on the switch next to the Authenticator app option.
Step 5: Enter your Twitter password and press the Confirm button.
We recommend using a password manager if you don’t remember your password.
Step 6: Now, tap on the Start button. Then select App Links.
Step 7: You will be redirected to the Authy app. Here you can set a backup password in case you frequently switch devices or press the Skip button.
Step 8: Enter the Account Nickname of your choice and then click Save.
Your Twitter account has now been successfully added to Authy. A code will be displayed on your screen along with a timer. Jot down this code and make sure you have enough time.
Step 9: Switch to the Twitter app. You will now be asked to enter the code that you recorded in the previous step. Enter it and press Confirm.
Congratulations! You have successfully enabled two-factor authentication on your Twitter account through Authy.
Step 10: You should now see a single-use backup code listed on the screen. Make a note of it somewhere and store it carefully in a safe place. Here’s the code you’ll need in case you don’t have access to your authenticator app but still need to log into Twitter.
Step 11: Click Done to finish the setup process.
Now, every time you try to log in to Twitter, you’ll be asked to enter your password and security code from Authy. So make sure you always have your phone with you.
FAQ about enabling two-factor authentication on Twitter
1. Is it safe to use an authenticator app for 2FA?
Definitely more secure than using 2FA based on SMS! Of course, something like a physical key for 2FA is the safest bet, but it’s not always practical.
2. Is it worth signing up for Twitter Blue for SMS-based two-factor authentication?
Absolutely not. As mentioned, application-based 2FA is more secure than SMS-based 2FA. So while Twitter Blue might be worth the investment for other features like the blue check mark and edit button, it’s not worth paying for a less secure system.
3. Is my account safe without two-factor authentication?
We do not recommend using any social media accounts without 2FA. Even if you have a long or difficult password, it’s better to have an extra layer of protection.
4. How do I verify that two-factor authentication is enabled on my Twitter account?
Try logging in to your Twitter account with another device. You will be asked to enter a security code after entering your password. This shows that 2FA is enabled.
Secure your Twitter account
If you haven’t already, it’s time to enable Twitter two-factor authentication on your account now. And we stress that a lot because cybercrime is at an all-time high and you certainly don’t want your account compromised.
Using an authenticator app for two-factor authentication is a great alternative to SMS authentication. So even if you’re a Twitter Blue subscriber, it’s time to switch from SMS-based 2FA to an app.
Categories: How to
Source: thpttranhungdao.edu.vn/en/
