With the rampant rise of account hacking in recent years, it’s important that all users take whatever measures they can to better protect their accounts and data. One of the most secure and effective security protocols available to users is two-factor authentication (2FA). Apple includes a two-factor authenticating system in iOS 15, iPadOS 15, macOS Monterey, and other software versions, and it is an extremely useful way to protect your online accounts from malicious access.
The two-factor authentication mode requests additional, verifiable pieces of information from the user, such as random codes generated from a third-party. The process is not only secure, but it is also exceedingly simple to set up. This feature makes it easy for people to secure their accounts using only their Apple devices, such as iPhones and iPads.
This article will explain the process of enabling 2FA on your Apple device and using a verification code for additional online security.
Step 1: Enable 2FA
The initial step in the process should be to enable 2FA in the account or service you are trying to secure. In most cases, the site or service in question will require that you input a setup key or scan a QR code displayed on the screen. It is often easiest to do this on a desktop computer while having your Apple device ready to scan the QR code. Depending on the service or website, you may need to turn off any default two-factor authenticating in place, such as a text message, and opt instead to use an authenticator app.
Step 2: Entering Setup Key
Once the two-factor authentication has been enabled on your account, you should then input the setup key. This can be done by going to the Settings app and choosing Passwords from the list. Here, you’ll select your account from the list provided, and tap on the “Set Up Verification Code” option. Then choose the “Enter Setup Key” option from the dropdown menu and enter the key.
Step 3: Scanning QR Code
When your account or service offers a QR code for setup, utilize your device’s camera app to point the viewfinder at your computer’s monitor screen. Once the code has been captured by the camera, tap on the “Add Verification Code” option in the Passwords tab. You may need to manually select the correct account to finalize the verification code.
After these steps have been completed, your device will be capable of autofilling verification codes necessary for signing into the account or service. When you come to log into the account, the latest code will appear above the virtual keyboard. Tap on this code to enter it into the appropriate field and proceed with your login.
As more of the day-to-day goes digital and the threat of malicious attacks persisting, it is more important than ever to strengthen our accounts with the security available to us. The Apple verification code system is a great way to gain additional peace of mind and protect any online accounts from malicious access.
What other security measures have you taken to better protect your accounts? Share your advice in the comments below.
