If a hacker or scammer can get hold of your password, they can use your mailbox, game on your account in your place, place orders in your name, post something on your Facebook, etc... How to avoid it? Read on!
Using a strong password is necessary, but a password alone does not protect you enough. Two-step verification (2FA) is an extra security measure to prevent hackers or scammers from accessing your account. You make it extra difficult for them by using two different forms of identification. Maybe you already know about it? Services like Itsme or using a digipass when banking online are also forms of 2FA.
To access your online accounts, you need to prove your identity e.g. through a password. When you activate 2FA, you add a second form of identification in addition to your password and there are 3 ways to do so:
With something only you know
With something you alone have
With something that makes you unique
Activating 2FA varies from platform to platform, but in general the steps are quite similar:
Go to the security settings of the account you want to secure.
Look for the option to enable 2FA and select it.
Choose the second factor you want to use (e.g. SMS, authentication app, etc.).
Follow the on-screen instructions to configure the second factor.
Test if everything has been activated properly by logging out and logging in again with the second factor.
• We recommend you start with your e-mail account.
• Then activate it on the websites where you also leave your bank details: webshops, booking websites, websites where you book tickets,...
• And finally on your social media.
Still need some help? Our e-learning module 'surfing without worries' will get you started!
Take a look at our FAQ and you're sure to find the answer you're looking for.
