Google Introduces New Settings for 2-Step Verification

If technologies aren't simple, people are unlikely to adopt them. We see this all the time, particularly for complex security protections like 2-Factor Authentication. Google has for a long time been at the forefront of keeping it simple with QR code scanning using Google Authenticator. Now Google is making 2-Step Verification even EASIER with Google Prompt. Users will receive a simple Yes/No prompt on their smartphone to authorize login to their account. SIMPLE!

If your business runs on Google Apps, this is a perfect time to introduce and require 2-Step Verification for your users.

Notes:

• Currently, you can't have Security Keys and Google prompt enabled at the same time.
• A data connection is required to use Google prompt.
• Android users will need updated Google Play Services to use Google prompt.
• iOS users will need the Google Search app installed on their phone to use Google prompt.

This is only for logging into your Google Account as of now. However setting up 2-Factor auth for other sites, business or personal, is a great idea to protect yourself and your data. This is especially true after the recent password leaks from LinkedIn and others. Google Authenticator supports most major sites. Twofactorauth.org is a great resource to check if a site has any type of 2-Factor Auth support and points to the requested site's documentation on setting it up.

Stay safe out there!