There’s no way to lock the app or hide it behind a password. But what if somebody gets access to your phone and tries to log in to Google Authenticator? It’s not an issue at all. Easy Access: If somebody hacks your phone and tries to log into your bank account, what happens? They still have to log in with a password or biometric data.

Unfortunately, most of the time you won’t realize how this app is vulnerable until it’s too late. Just because Google pioneered the 2FA standard doesn’t mean they’ve maintained that standard. I only recommend what I personally have used, and I appreciate your support! Why You Shouldn’t Use Google Authenticator Meanwhile, Google also added an option for Android smartphones to serve as a security key, and rolled the same feature out to iPhones.Note: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which means that at no extra cost to you, I may be compensated if you choose to use one of the services listed. The search giant sells security key called Titan.

Of course, you could also use an actual physical security key, which Google sells in its store. For accounts that offer two-factor authentication, 1Password (and authenticator apps) will create a six-digit code that is changed every 30 seconds or so. I currently use 1Password, which offers password management features and authentication features. You should also consider using a password manager to help create unique, complicated passwords for your many different logins.

If you do use two-factor authentication, might I suggest using an authenticator app, as SMS messages can be intercepted. A second form of verification - usually confirmed in an app or by SMS - gives users the opportunity to confirm they’re really the one logging in. Google said that two-factor authentication is one of the best ways to protect your account, whether your password has been breached or not.

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