Two Factor Authentication, or just 2FA for short, is an extra layer of security that adds a second step to the login process. After you enter your username and password, you'll be asked to enter a code from your phone or an authenticator app ...
If you're not already using Two Factor Authentication, I encourage you to do so as soon as you can!
This makes it far more difficult for hackers to access your account, even if they have your password. So, here are 5 reasons why you should use Two Factor Authentication:
It's more secure than a password alone
A password can be guessed or stolen, but a code from your phone or authenticator app is much more difficult to guess or steal.
It protects you from phishing attacks
Phishing attacks are a common way for hackers to steal your login credentials. With 2FA, even if you fall for a phishing attack, the hacker will still need your code from your phone or authenticator app to access your account.
It's easy to set up
Most websites and apps now offer 2FA as an option. Setting it up usually only takes a few minutes.
It's free
There's no cost to use 2FA. Most accounting systems have it baked in.
It's a good habit to get into
The more you use 2FA, the more secure you'll be online.
If you need help setting up your 2FA in Xero then just let me know. Just remember though, if your method of authorising your access is through your mobile phone you will need to switch 2FA off before changing your phone.
I have had a couple of clients caught out like this who then got locked out of their account when they got a new phone. You would be better off using an app like Authy which can also be installed on your PC and is not phone dependent.
If you're not already using Two Factor Authentication, I encourage you to do so as soon as you can. 2FA a very simple way to add an extra layer of security to your online accounting package as well as a whole host of other cloud-based software.
Until next time ...
ALISON MEAD
Would you like to know more?
If anything I've written in this blog post resonates with you and you'd like to discover more about Two Factor Authentication and how it can protect you, it may be a great idea to give me a call on 01604 217365 and let's see how I can help you.
Alison loves bookkeeping and supporting bookkeepers. She has been helping clients to be better bookkeepers in Sage 50 for over 24 years and has been Xero Accredited in accounts and payroll for a number of years too.
She specialises in a very unique hand-holding method of training, helping bookkeepers and business owners to use their accounts software as and when they need support in setting up and producing their invoices, reports and financial information.
Alison combines her role at Silicon Bullet with her Forever Living network marketing businesses and is often to be seen at business networking meetings as she likes to keep busy.
You know what they say: if you want something done well ask a busy person!
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