There are two ways to protect an Apple ID: two-step verification and two-factor authentication. The two methods are similar, but there are differences. This is why you should go for two-factor authentication.
Set up two-factor authentication on Apple devices
Of course you want to protect your Apple ID and iCloud as well as possible. If you do not do this, you increase the risk that malicious parties will take off with your personal data or files. The most advanced layer of security that Apple has to prevent this is two-factor authentication, also known as 2fa.
This method can best be seen as the successor to two-step verification. Not only are the login codes that you have to enter longer (and therefore more difficult to crack), this security layer also shows a geographic map during registration. In addition, 2fa automatically manages your trusted devices, and you can unlock your Mac with an Apple Watch, for example.
This is how you enable two-factor authentication on an iPhone or iPad:
- Go to the Settings app and tap your name;
- Choose ‘Password and Security’ and enter your Apple ID password when prompted;
- Select ‘Turn on two-factor authentication’ and you’re done.
You can also turn on 2fa via a Mac. To do this, follow the directions below:
- Go to the Apple menu and choose ‘System Preferences’;
- Click iCloud, then click Account Information. Enter the Apple ID password when prompted;
- Tap the ‘Security’ tab and click ‘Turn on two-factor authentication’.
What kind of security do I use?
On your Apple ID account page you can see what kind of security technology you are using now. Under the heading ‘Security’ it is indicated whether you use 2fa or two-step verification. The latter must first be turned off before you can make the switch to two-factor authentication. To do this, click on ‘Change’ behind two-step verification and choose ‘Disable two-step verification’. Confirm your choice.
Secure your Apple devices
You probably keep a lot of personal files and data on your iPhone, iPad, Mac or Apple Watch. Good security is therefore very important. For example, we can advise everyone to use a good passwords app. If you prefer not to install additional apps, you can also, for example, get started with the built-in options to secure your iPhone.
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