Secret Google code app can save billions from ‘bank emptying’ horror – check your phone for free upgrade

GOOGLE users have been warned to enable an important setting or risk their bank accounts being emptied.

It’s no surprise that Google takes its users’ security seriously – as evidenced by the number of privacy tools they provide us with.

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One of the best tools from the tech giant, however, is Google Authenticator.

Most smartphone users rely on two-factor authentication, also known as 2FA, for securing their online accounts.

2FA protects your accounts by requiring an extra level of verification before logging in – such as a text confirmation.

And while this is a better level of security than just a lengthy password, sometimes hackers can get access to your SMS messages.

For this reason, Google is recommending that people use Google’s built-in authenticator.

WHAT IS GOOGLE AUTHENTICATOR?

Google Authenticator is a 2-step software-based system that aims to keep your accounts more secure.

It’s designed to replace SMS texts for your two-factor authentication.

So when you sign up or log in to a website, it’s the Google Authenticator that validates a login – rather than a text.

What’s more, users can still receive codes without an internet connection or mobile service.

This is especially handy in recent times now that Twitter is charging users for SMS authentication.

SET UP GOOGLE AUTHENTICATOR

Getting set up on Google Authenticator is easy – simply down the app on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

On your device, go to your Google Account > at the top, and tap the Security tab.

Under “Signing in to Google,” tap 2-Step Verification. You may need to sign in.

Under “Authenticator app,” tap Set up > follow the on-screen steps.

This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk