With the increasing popularity of social media platforms, security is of paramount importance. While choosing a strong password helps, 2FA improves your security further. Here is how to do just that for some of the common and most used platforms.
1. How to enable Two-factor authentication on Facebook:
To enable two-factor authentication on Facebook, head over to Facebook’s Settings. Select the
Security and Login tab and scroll down to
Use two-factor authentication. After clicking
Edit, you can choose to pick an authentication app or text message (SMS) as your security method. By default, Facebook recommends using an authentication app. If you do choose to use a text message (SMS) instead, select your country code then enter your phone number.
Caution, phone numbers used for two-factor authentication no longer work for password recovery. After choosing one security method, Facebook allows you to select additional security methods as a back-up. In addition to the default security methods, you can now use recovery codes and a security key.
2. How to enable Two-factor authentication on Twitter:
On Twitter, go to your account settings to set-up two-factor authentication. This route slightly differs depending on how you’re using Twitter.
- On the web (Desktop), click More on Twitter’s side menu. Then click Settings and privacy.
- On the Twitter app, tap your profile icon in the upper-left. Scroll down and select Settings and privacy.
Under Settings, go to
Account then select
Security. Select Two-factor authentication, then follow the prompts to set-up 2FA by text message or an authentication app. You’ll need to enter your password for confirmation of either method. After you add one method for two-factor authentication, you can add the other authentication type or a security key while logged into Twitter on a supported web browser.
However, the Twitter mobile app won’t allow you to add a security key. In case you don’t have access to your phone, Twitter also supports a single-use backup code and a temporary password.
3. How to enable Two-factor authentication on Instagram:
Here though, it’s best to set-up Instagram’s two-factor authentication on a mobile device. With your browser, Instagram only supports two-factor authentication via text.
On the Instagram app, go to your
Profile and click the menu icon at the top-right. Press the
Settings icon then choose
Security. Under Login Security, scroll down and tap
Two-Factor Authentication. Instagram then provides you with a quick explanation of two-factor authentication. To continue, press
Get Started to choose your security method. If you choose to set up two-factor authentication by text message, you’ll enter your phone number and then the Instagram code sent via text to complete the process.
If you choose to use the authentication app, Instagram recommends Duo Mobile and will offer to install it. However, you can choose to set it up manually if you have your own app. Instagram doesn’t provide a QR code, but you can copy your Instagram key to your authentication app to finish setting it up manually. Once you’ve selected a method, you’ll receive recovery codes in case your phone isn’t available.
4. How to enable Two-factor authentication on Snapchat:
Open the Snapchat app, click on your profile icon in the upper-left. Click the
red gear icon to open Settings. Press Two-Factor Authentication, and you’ll be given a quick summary of what it is. Tap
Continue, and you’ll be able to choose a way to receive your verification code. If you use SMS verification, you’ll receive a text with your code. Enter it to complete two-factor authentication via SMS.
If you choose to go with an authentication app, you can set it up either automatically or manually. Snapchat also offers to find you an app. Once you’ve generated a verification code via the app, Snapchat suggests you set up SMS verification if you haven’t already.
After you’ve set up two-factor authentication, Snapchat will ask you to generate a recovery code.
Summary: To protect your account and all of its history, it’s worth considering adding another layer of security. Two-factor authentication provides additional safety.
