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In recent years, we have been hearing about celebrities being hacked on a weekly basis, which has led Apple to take steps to protect its users from such attacks. Two types of security protocols are being offered to Apple ID users: 2-factor authentication and 2-step verification. However, many users are confused about which option to choose in order to protect their accounts from hackers. In this article, we will explain what 2-step verification and 2-factor authentication are and how you can use them to secure your Apple ID.
Protecting the Security of Your Apple ID with 2-Step Verification
2-step verification has been available to Apple ID users since 2013, and it was the first method that Apple used to protect its users from hackers who tried to gain access to their accounts using their Apple ID and password. With 2-step verification, users are asked to verify their accounts whenever they log in with their Apple ID and iCloud account or when making purchases from a new device. Other situations may also require the user to verify their account, which can be found on the official Apple Support page.
But how does one verify their account? Is it a matter of remembering two passwords instead of one? It’s a little more complicated than that. There are four different options to choose from:
- Push the message to a trusted iOS device: This option allows you to log in quickly using push notifications from another device you trust.
- Text message or phone call to a registered number: If you have a mobile phone or a landline phone linked to your Apple ID account, Apple will send you a 4-digit code via text message or give it to you over the phone.
- Offline recovery: You will receive a 14-digit Recovery Key to keep for 2-step verification, which can be used to gain access in case you don’t have access to your trusted devices or forget your Apple ID password.
- An application-specific password: If the app you are using does not support 2-step verification, you can generate an app-specific password for your Apple ID account to use when prompted.
While 2-step verification provides an extra layer of security for your Apple ID, Apple suggests that this option is outdated and should only be used by those who do not own Apple devices or may not be eligible for the more advanced 2-factor authentication.
Setting Up 2-Step Verification for Your Apple ID
Setting up 2-step verification on iOS is quite simple. Just click on the link provided and log in with your Apple ID, then follow the instructions. Don’t forget that this method is only recommended for users who do not have an Apple device available, for any reason, or for those who do not have access to 2-factor authentication.
Protecting the Security of Your Apple ID with 2-Factor Authentication
What exactly is 2-factor authentication, and why is it better than 2-step authentication? 2-factor authentication is a step up from 2-step verification, and was introduced in 2015 along with iOS 9. This new and improved security protocol is baked directly into iOS 9, OS X with El Capitan and newer, meaning it cannot be used by devices with older operating systems.
The methods of verification for 2-factor authentication vary slightly from those of 2-step verification. Users can choose from one of the following options:
- A push message to a trusted device: This method allows you to quickly check the log, as is the case with the older method, and the best Apple devices, which allow for interactive notifications.
- Text message or phone call to a registered number: Once again, this method is similar to Apple’s previous 2-step verification. Apple will send text messages or make calls, providing a 4-digit code to enter for authentication.
- The Offline code is to be generated by a trusted device: This method is exclusive to 2-factor authentication and allows the trusted device to generate a code, even when offline. Just go to the Settings menu on your device and take note of the generated code.
In addition to the above methods, Apple also provides a way to receive notifications on Apple devices running iOS 8 or older versions of OS X Yosemite. If you try to log in to your Apple ID and iCloud account on a non-supported device, you will need to have an authentication code from a trusted device, as described above, and then add it to the end of your Apple ID and password.
For example, if your Apple ID and password are “username” and “password,” respectively, and the code generated by the trusted device is “1234,” you would enter “password1234” as your Apple ID and password.
Setting Up 2-Factor Authentication for Your Apple ID
Unlike 2-step verification, you can only sign up for 2-factor authentication via a supported device with Apple (iOS 9 or newer, or OS X El Capitan or newer). Note that if you were using 2-step verification in the past, you will need to disable it before setting up 2-factor authentication.
To set up 2-factor authentication on your iPhone:
- Open Settings > iCloud, then select your Apple ID.
- Select Password and Security.
- Tap Turn on 2-Factor Authentication.
To set up 2-factor authentication on your Mac:
- Access the Apple menu in the upper left corner of your screen, go to System Preferences > iCloud > Account Details.
- Click on Security.
- Click on 2-Factor Authentication.
Follow the on-screen instructions, and you’re all set! You now have 2-step verification enabled for your Apple ID, ensuring that your sensitive information and media content remain safe from potential hackers.
FAQs
1. Can I use both 2-step verification and 2-factor authentication for my Apple ID?
No, you cannot. If you choose to switch to 2-factor authentication, you will need to disable 2-step verification first. This is because the two methods are not compatible with each other.
2. If I lose my trusted device, can I still access my Apple ID?
Yes, you can still access your Apple ID even if you lose your trusted device. Simply use your Recovery Key to gain access. If you lose both your trusted device and your Recovery Key, you will need to contact Apple Support for assistance.