Elon Musk wants you to subscribe to Twitter Blue. To do this, the new head of the social network will reserve double authentication by SMS only for subscribers to the service. To connect securely, “free” users will no longer be able to receive a unique code via SMS to verify their identity. Attempts against the security of the accounts, this measure aims to reduce the costs generated by these shipments.
However, double authentication is still available on Twitter. As of March 20, the SMS method will become exclusive to the Twitter Blue service, but two other options will remain available. in a blog postthe app also encourages people to turn to double-authentication apps and security keys.
third party application
To change your connection settings, you need to go to Twitter settings from a web browser. Two-factor authentication can be accessed from the “Security & Account Access” menu, then “Security.” The application offers to choose the desired double authentication system – here, the authenticator application.
A QR code is then displayed on the screen. From your smartphone, simply scan this QR code from a two-factor authentication app, such as Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Lastpass. These apps allow you to get a six-digit code that renews every 30 seconds. Once associated with Twitter, your app’s temporary code will be required to complete setup.
From then on, the temporary code will be needed to log into your account. It will replace the one that usually provides the SMS to authenticate the person who accesses the account. Be sure to keep the security code provided.
Security key
Twitter also offers authentication via security keys for your site. Since 2021, this protection method is possible for connections from the mobile application. However, it requires an economic investment, which implies the purchase of a specific USB key of the Yubikey or Google Titan type. These keys can be connected to phones via USB-C connectivity and some models now include NFC technology.
The process is identical except that instead of scanning a QR code, you have to insert your security key into your computer. Instructions are then displayed on the screen to give your security key a name. Then it is possible to add other keys and manage them from this same menu.
Again, a security key will be required each time you log into the Twitter app.
Save the backup code
Once two-factor authentication is set up, Twitter provides a backup code. Accessible from the “Two-Factor Authentication” menu, it must be saved in a safe place, through a screenshot, entry in a note or email, etc.
This 12-character code authorizes a user to connect to their account without using double authentication, even if it is configured. This option can only be used once. As soon as it is used, the backup code is renewed. Therefore, it will be necessary to take care again to keep this new code, which can be very valuable in case of loss of the mobile or the physical key.
Source: BFM TV
