Privacy Chapter 6 — 2FA & Passkeys: Modern Authentication Explained Simply

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Representational Picture: 2FA and Passkeys

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and Passkeys:

Alright, let’s talk about two powerful tools that can seriously boost your online security: Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and Passkeys.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA is like adding an extra lock to your door. Even if someone gets your password, they still need a second piece of information to get into your account. This could be a code sent to your phone, an app on your device, or even a physical security key. The idea is simple: by requiring two forms of verification, you make it much harder for hackers to access your accounts.

There are different ways to use 2FA:

Authenticator App: This is the best method. Apps like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, Proton Authenticator or Ente Auth generate a code that changes every 30 seconds. This means even if someone sees your code, it will be useless after half a minute.

SMS or Email: You can also get codes via text or email. While better than nothing, these methods are less secure because SMS and email can be intercepted and are very incovenient.

Password Managers: Some password managers like 1Password, Proton Pass, NordPass, and Bitwarden offer built-in 2FA. This adds an extra layer of security and convenience because they can autofill the 2FA codes for you.

Using an authenticator app is generally the best option because it provides a unique code every 30 seconds. This makes it almost impossible for hackers to guess your code in time. I personally use 2FA on all websites that support it and manage my codes through 1Password, which autofills the 2FA codes for me, making my life so much easier. Though for general people, I would suggest Proton Authenticator or Ente Auth.

For those who want even more security, you can use a dedicated 2FA security key like Yubico YubiKey. This is a physical device you plug into your computer or connect via Bluetooth to verify your identity. It’s super secure because it’s almost impossible to hack, but it can be a bit less convenient since you need the physical key with you.

Passkeys

Passkeys are the future of secure logins, designed to eventually replace passwords. Instead of remembering a password, you use a combination of your device and a biometric check (like a fingerprint or face scan) to log in. This makes your accounts much more secure because there’s no password to steal or guess.

Think of passkeys as a digital version of a lock and key. The lock (your account) can only be opened by your unique key (your biometric data), which is stored on your device. This means even if a hacker gets hold of your device, they still need your fingerprint or face to get in.

Turning on 2FA and Passkeys wherever supported is crucial. It makes hacking you much harder. Imagine if someone gets your password—they still can’t get into your account without your second factor. Without 2FA, a single stolen password can give hackers full access to your personal data, bank accounts, and more.

Why Use 2FA and Passkeys?

- Strong Security: Adds an extra layer of protection.

- Easy to Use: Password managers can autofill codes.

- Peace of Mind: Knowing your accounts are much harder to hack.

2FA in Password Managers vs. Authenticator Apps

- Convenience: Password managers can autofill 2FA codes, making logins faster and easier.

- All-in-One: Everything is stored in one place, simplifying your digital life.

- Cross-Platform: Password managers work across all your devices seamlessly.

Whatever method you choose, definitely use 2FA and Passkeys to protect your accounts. It’s a simple step that can save you a lot of trouble down the line. Secure your online life now and stay ahead of the hackers.

← Chapter 5: Password Managers

Chapter 7: VPNs→