Two Factor Authentication (Without a Phone Number)

Google 2FA Upgrade! Ditch the phone number, boost your security! New ways to lock down your account are here. Learn how to enable stronger 2FA in seconds!

The take-up of pass-codes has been a bit slower than expected, so fair enough if you're not ready to jump in… but in the meantime, you need to at least be looking at some form of secondary security - like 2FA. Have you used 2FA? Did you skip it when asked to set it up? hmm
Well, Two-Factor Authentication Just Got Easier with Google! (No Phone Number Needed!)Keeping your Google account secure is more important than ever, and two-factor authentication (2FA) is a great way to add an extra layer of protection. 
Historically 2FA has been setup to work with your phone number. This is not as safe as it used to be as scammers are working out ways to intercept messages.
Good news! Google just made things easier to setup 2FA without a phone number at all.
Step 1: Head to Your Google Account Settings
Log in to your Google account and navigate to your security settings. This might be under "Security" or "Two-factor authentication" depending on your settings. (swipe right)
Step 2: Choose Your "Second Step Method"
This second method can be:

• Authenticator App: Download a popular app like Google Authenticator, which generates unique codes for logins. You need to install the App!
  
• Hardware Security Key: For ultimate security, consider a physical hardware key that plugs into your device for verification. Overkill for most.
  

Step 3: Follow the On-Screen Instructions
Google will guide you through setting up your chosen method, whether it's linking the authenticator app or registering your hardware key.
Benefits of Ditching Phone Number 2FA:

• More Secure: SMS verification is less secure than authenticator apps or hardware keys, making your account harder to hack.
  
• Convenience: No need to rely on your phone number being accessible for logins.
  
• Future-Proofing: Passkeys, a newer and more secure form of authentication, are becoming increasingly popular.
  

Don't Wait, Secure Your Account Today!
With this change, there's no excuse to skip 2FA. Take advantage of Google's update and choose the method that best suits your needs. A more secure Google account is just a few clicks away!