Facebook Just Made Two-Factor Authentication Easier to Set Up

Facebook is making it easier to set up two-factor authentication on your account, and allowing those who want to use a third-party authenticator app instead of their phone number to receive their authentication code.

If you’re not familiar, two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your account. When you log in with your password on a new device or in a way that’s a bit unusual, you’ll be prompted to enter a numerical code as well that you either receive via text message or through an app. The idea is that even if someone else manages to get your password they won’t be able to access your account.

If you don’t already have it set up, you should. Most services offer the feature these days, including Twitter and Gmail and you want it set up on everything you have.

Previously you needed to give Facebook your phone number in order to use two-factor authentication. Which, if for obvious reasons you didn’t want to hand over meant you couldn’t use the feature.

Now, you can use a third-party app such as Google Authenticator, which constantly generates new codes (so you can access them even if you don’t have a cell signal) in addition to a phone number.

For people who don’t have the feature set up at all, Facebook will also walk you through the process with prompts to make it a little less confusing.

To get started, go to the Settings menu within the Facebook app or your desktop and then select “Security and Login” and then “Use two-factor authentication.”

:story: Lifehacker