Two Step Verification or Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a simple solution to better protect your accounts. Two-Factor Authentication keeps unwanted guests out of your account, even if they know your password. Use Two-Factor Authentication where possible. It's simple and safe.
To access your account, you have to be able to prove that you are who you claim to be. This can be done in 3 ways or using 3 factors:
- something only you know (your password or PIN number),
- something only you have access to (your phone or token),
- something that is a part of you (your fingerprint, face, iris, etc.).
You generally use only one of these factors, often a password, to prove who you are, but it is better to use 2 or more factors: this is called two or multi-factor authentiaction(2FA or MFA). For example, you can use a password and have a code sent to your mobile phone, or you can use your fingerprint and an app to gain access.
Two-Factor Authentication via a verification app
- itsme® is a free app enabling you to prove your identity or confirm transactions in a safe, easy and reliable way. itsme® is an initiative from Belgian Mobile ID, a consortium of Belgian major banks and network operators.
- Google Authenticator
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Authy
- Duo Mobile
Where to start?
- Start with your e-mail
- Then activate it on the websites where you also leave your bank details: webshops, booking websites, websites where you book tickets,...
- Your social media
Get in the habit of using it everywhere you can.
Don't know how to engage Two-Factor Authentication on your Facebook or Instagram account? The most commonly used services offer a form of two-step verification and have a short instruction page.
