Twitter Update: New Authentication Method Switches To Third-Party Apps From SMS
Recent reports have revealed that social media giant Twitter is ramping up its security measures as they have introduced a new two-factor authentication measure that supports third-party apps instead of SMS.
"Login verification is an extra layer of security for your Twitter account. Instead of only entering a password to log in, you'll also enter a code which is sent to your mobile phone. This verification helps make sure that you, and only you, can access your account," Twitter said in a statement. "After you enable this feature, you will need both your password and your mobile phone to log in to your account."
The update is significant in security measures. The Verge notes that this is because, the SMS-based two-factor authentication uses static code that can be intercepted in the event of a hacking or a malicious third-party that can view or access the messages on the users' personal device. In contrast, the new update has support for apps like Google Authenticator, which erases authentication and access code in approximately 30 seconds, making it a safer alternative in authenticating accounts.
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Despite the update, SMS will still be utilized for Twitter mainly for account recovery. To take advantage of the new update, Twitter has given out instructions on how to use it with a third-party app, among others. For those interested, they would have to go to settings in through the profile icon and select account. Under security, users will have to select "review your login verification methods" which will prompt them to enter their password. The selections should include an option for set up which will lead to another option for Mobile security app. After that, Twitter has programmed in specific instructions on how to proceed depending on the type of authentication.
For other devices, Twitter has posted the instructions on their support page.
