You no longer need to hand your phone number to set Facebook 2FA
On May 23, the company announced in the blog post that Facebook had improved its two-factor authentication services[1]. Primary, 2FA helps the users to protect their accounts against phishing and spam attacks. Once the user wants to log in, it is necessary to provide both, the password and either the number sent to your phone or code generated by an app.
The main idea of the 2FA is to make sure that the person can prove his/her identity by providing two out of three options when logging in[2]:
- Password;
- Fingerprint;
- Numerical code.
The product manager at Facebook, Scott Dickens, says that the company has made it easier to help people protect their accounts without giving sensitive data[3]:
We've made it easier than ever to enable two-factor authentication with a streamlined setup flow that guides you through the process. We've also expanded the ways in which you can secure your account with a second factor by ensuring that people can enable two-factor authentication without registering a phone number.
Authenticator apps are now used to set up Facebook 2FA
Previously, those who wanted an extra layer of security to avoid phishing attacks and other forms of the Facebook virus[4] had to enter their phone numbers to set up Facebook two-factor authentication. Luckily, the company has improved this feature, and the mobile number is no longer mandatory.
Now people can use third-party authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Duo Security on both, mobile and computer[5]. Each user who decides to set up 2FA on Facebook is as the company claims streamlined with the setup flow that makes the process easier and quicker.
Here is how you can set 2FA without giving your number on Facebook
We strongly recommend each user to set 2FA on Facebook and other social media platforms since it is one of the most successful features which has helped people protect their accounts from hackers and other malevolent people. If you are unaware how to do that, please check this 5-step guide:
- Log into your Facebook account;
- Click on the downward-pointing arrow on the top-right corner of the window;
- Select Settings and then go to Security and Log in;
- Find Two-factor Authentication at the bottom of the page;
- Once you find three options to set up 2FA, go for authenticator app;
- ^ Jack Morse. Facebook finally lets you enable 2FA without handing over your phone number. Mashable. Digital Media Website.
- ^ Lisa Vaas. Facebook 2FA no longer needs a phone number: here’s how to set it up. Naked Security. Computer Security News, Advice and Research.
- ^ Scott Dickens. Two-factor authentication for Facebook now easier to set up. Facebook. Social Network Company.
- ^ Jake Doevan. Facebook virus. How to remove? (Uninstall guide). 2Spyware. Security and Spyware News.
- ^ Timothy J. Seppala. Facebook won't require a phone number for two-factor authentication. Engadget. IT news and reviews.