A Simple Guide to Extra Security (Like a Double Lock on Your Door)
You know how we lock our house doors to keep bad people out? Online accounts (like email, banking, or Facebook) need locks too. The basic lock is your password – that’s like the key to your door.
But passwords can be stolen by tricky thieves on the internet (called “hackers”). They might guess it, trick you into telling it, or steal it from somewhere else.
That’s why we add an extra lock – something called Two-Step Security (also known as 2FA or Multi-Factor Authentication). It’s very important to turn this on!
How the Basic Password Works (Not Safe Enough Alone)
You type your password and get in.
Easy, but if a thief gets your password, they can get in too!
How the Extra Security Works (Much Safer!)
You type your normal password (the first lock).
Then, you need a second thing – usually a special code sent to your phone or from an app.
Even if a thief steals your password, they can’t get in without your phone!
Why It’s Called Different Names
- MFA | Multi-Factor Authentication:
Enter your password, confirm with Face ID, and approve a push notification on your phone. - 2FA | Two-Factor Authentication:
Enter your password, then type in a 6-digit code sent to your phone by SMS or an authenticator app. - 2SV | Two-Step Verification:
Enter your password, then tap Approve on a notification on your phone. - 1FA | Single Authentication:
Enter a password.
They’re mostly the same thing – the important part is having that extra step beyond just the password!
Please turn this on for your important accounts like emails. It’s quick to set up and makes things much safer.
Further information
Staying Safe Online | Age UK
A Beginner’s Guide to Two-Factor Authentication
https://www.dashlane.com/blog/a-beginners-guide-to-two-factor-authentication-2fa
2FA: A simplified guide to two-factor authentication
https://us.norton.com/blog/privacy/what-is-2fa
Setting up 2-Step Verification (2SV)
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/setting-2-step-verification-2sv