On iPhoned, we have been recommending readers to secure online accounts with two-factor authentication for years. The problem with this is often that the apps you do this with are far from ideal. Step Two changes this.
Step Two makes security accessible
As more and more people are becoming aware of the importance of good online security, two-step authentication (or two-step verification) is gaining in popularity. Good news, because with this extra (second) security step you make it a lot more difficult for an outsider to break into your account.
With a press on one of the blocks you copy the code, so that you can easily paste it again. Via Haptic Feedback, your iPhone gives a subtle vibration when you have copied a code. Adding a new code is easy by scanning a qr code, or adding one manually token by using the Secret Key. The maker of Step Two emphasizes that this data never leaves your iPhone unless you activate iCloud.
With iCloud support you can have the app synchronize between different devices. Handy if you switch to a new iPhone, and therefore do not have to enter all your codes manually. The advantage of this is that your codes can be on multiple devices, such as your iPhone and your iPad. At the same time, this is also a disadvantage, because it increases the chance that someone else will be able to see this data.
Simple and beautiful design
Step Two has by far the most beautiful design of all the authentication apps that we have tested. Subtle animations allow buttons to merge beautifully. Each code for a website can be easily distinguished from each other by giving them its own color, and a small circle in the top right corner of these blocks shows how long the code will still work. The design fits seamlessly with the design that Apple has chosen for iOS 11.
Step Two is completely free to use, but has an in-app purchase that allows you to add more than ten accounts. However, ten accounts will be more than enough for many people. This makes Step Two a must for anyone who wants to better secure their accounts in an accessible way.
Also read: The 4 best password apps to secure your online profiles