Facebook has improved the process of two step verification to access the social network. From now on it will no longer be mandatory to use a phone number, but you will be able to use an application such as Google Authenticator.
Two-step verification, an extra layer of protection you should be wearing
La two step verification is a security system that forces you to enter a random code when trying to log into a service. East bar code It must reach the user through a device that only they control, in such a way as to ensure that whoever tries to log in is the person to whom the account corresponds, avoiding unwanted access even if they are made with our password.
There are usually two great methods to send these codes: SMS messages and authentication apps. The SMS messages they have the advantage of being immediate and not requiring much configuration, but their lack of encryption makes them less secure. The authenticator apps they are more secure because they are encrypted, but they require more configuration and not all services support them, so they cannot be used for everything even if they are the ideal option.
Facebook's two-step verification improves: you can now use authentication apps
To date, Facebook was part of that group of applications that were not compatible with authentication apps such as Google Authenticator, so it depended exclusively on the phone number and receiving SMS messages. In this case, the lack of encryption of these messages was compounded by the fact that not all people want Facebook to have their number, so for many it was not even an option.
The two main changes you have made Facebook, According to their own announcement, they have been the renewal of the design of the configuration screens - creating a more direct, clear and simple process - and the possibility of adding authentication apps such as Google Authenticator to use XNUMX-Step Verification. Both things are very important for the safety of the bulk of users.
The design change should help the vast majority of people who simply don't even know what two-step verification is. A simpler process invites you to do it and enjoy its advantages. Regarding the addition of extra applications, we have already commented on their advantages: security is increased thanks to the special encryption they use.
Without the slightest intention of bothering the creator of this note, I would like to express that I use Google Authenticator as an application to verify Facebook login since last year, so perhaps it can be used for several months. Kind regards.