Two Step Authentication-Added Security
Is My Data Safe Online?
Are you using Dropbox, Google Apps, Evernote or a password protection program for your business? If so, you have probably wondered if your data is safe off and online. Am I right? In most cases, the answer is yes. The companies listed above (Dropbox, Evernote & Google) tend to take good care of your login account and data. They have to do this, because if there were lots of hacks and data stolen, their business model would fail.
What Is Two-Step Authentication?
In this short blog, I wanted to recommend one extra security step you should definitely consider if you are primarily using cloud-based programs. It is called two-step authentication. You may have seen or heard about this sort of thing. A lot of well known banks have had this system setup for their online banking for years. Basically, after you login to your program, enter username and password, if two-step is turned on, you will get an email or text message with a 6 digit code to type into your program. This adds a second level of security, ensuring that YOU, not a hacker, is logging in to the cloud system. It might sound annoying, but in most cases the two-step authentication memorizes your device for 30 days.Do You Need Two-Step Authentication?
As explained above, I really do suggest that you enable two-step authentication. As more and more people begin to use cloud products, hacking and stealing information will definitely increase. Even if you are using the paid programs, two-step is still a good practice. The chances of getting hacked are far more likely than winning the lottery. So take the extra time to enable it today. I will say that this function is typically not an option for free accounts. So if you are using the premium versions of Dropbox or Evernote, you can turn this on now. If your company is using Google Apps for Business Free Edition, I would upgrade to the paid version strictly for this added security feature. You also get extra storage! Have you already been using two-step authentication? How is it working for you? Any feedback or comments?
About David Chism
David Chism started his business out of a passion for helping small contracting businesses grow, be more profitable and become better known to their target clients. One lifelong hobby of David is using techie gadgets. So this blog is a place where he writes about technology, marketing ideas, just for fun (humor), personal thoughts on small business and more.
