Two-factor authentication, while once reserved for highly secure systems, is increasingly needed in every-day applications. There are several reasons for this, including advances in machine learning algorithms coupled with an ever-growing number compromised password lists (training data). Based on this more sophisticated threat landscape, a single factor of authentication using a secret password “something you know” is no longer sufficient in many cases. Adding a second factor — often “something you have” — is the next best step toward securing your data.
These second factors commonly take the form of text message codes sent to your phone number or TOTP tokens generated by a smart phone app. In either case, these codes require having your phone in order to finish the login process, greatly reducing the likelihood that your accounts will be compromised. If you think you need this added security (spoiler: you do!), let us know. We’ll be happy to help!