How To Switch Twitter 2FA From SMS To An App

Moving ahead, they will only be left with two options: a physical security key and a third-party authenticator. Though frustrating, it’s arguably a good move for users. Security experts have warned on numerous occasions about the risks associated with SMS, as hackers have repeatedly exploited vulnerabilities to intercept messages carrying security codes. Multiple companies have stopped relying on SMS-based security verification, and even the likes of Google now prefer on-device prompts for Android users instead of SMS-reliant identity verification.

You’ll need an authenticator app

If you haven’t used an authenticator app before, now’s the perfect opportunity to set one up. An authenticator app is a mobile application that generates a temporary code to verify that it is actually you who is trying to log in. Instead of a getting a SMS code, or plugging in a physical security key, the authenticator app generates a time-sensitive code.

The good news is that there are plenty of capable authenticator apps out there that are totally free.Twilio Authyis one of the most popular cross-platform authenticator apps, but if you are deep into corporate workflow,Duo Mobileis worth a try.Google Authenticatoris a reliable and easy-to-use free option. You can also check outLastPass Authenticatorand theMicrosoft Authenticatorapps.

UI of Google Authenticator app.

Once you’ve installed it on your Android or iOS smartphone, it’s time to dive into the security settings of the app or service for which you want to enable two-factor authentication. These apps aren’t only useful for Twitter: they can also protect accounts like Gmail and more. Once you’ve selected the option for using an authenticator app, you will be asked to add that app or service to your authenticator app.

A majority of online services these days generate a QR code, which you need to scan using the authenticator app installed on your phone. Once the code has been scanned, you may be asked to enter the code appearing on your phone’s screen. After the initial verification is complete, the authenticator app will store that website’s credentials, and you’ll get a code from it every time you want to log in later.

Twitter two-factor security

Leave behind the SMS flaws

If you don’t plan on paying for a Twitter Blue subscription, but are worried about losing two-factor authentication convenience, you’re able to change the method for verification in a few simple steps:

If you already have a third-party app installed on your phone, follow the on-screen prompts to finish the setup. Once done, whenever you attempt to log into Twitter in future, you’ll need both your password and the time-sensitive code generated by the app.