The two-step verification for Instagram is extensive and possible for everyone to set up. High time to do this. We explain how it should be done.
Two-step verification Instagram
It is now possible for anyone to set up two-step verification for Instagram via an authentication app. This means that you put an extra layer of security over your Instagram account, making it more difficult for malicious parties to gain access. Previously, Instagram’s two-step verification consisted of a one-time code that you received by text message.
→ Read also: The 5 best two-step verification apps to secure your accounts
This SMS verification has been available to everyone since March 2017, and can also be used as an extra security option for the time being. However, that is by no means the safest way, which is why the social photo platform has expanded its two-step verification. From now on you can also use an app like Google Authenticator or Authy to generate a one-time extra login code.
It’s important to set up two-step verification on as many accounts you use as possible. This is the only way you can be sure that if, for example, a password is discovered, it is still not possible to simply gain access to your e-mail, social media and so on.
This month we pay extra attention to this in our monthly theme Security. To confirm your identity, check your authentication app or text messages for a code, which you must then enter when logging in.
This is how you set up two-step verification via an app for Instagram
- Open the Instagram app;
- Tap the bottom right to open your profile page;
- Then tap the gear at the top right;
- Choose ‘Two-step verification’ in the menu that you now get;
- Slide the switch next to ‘Verification app’ to the right;
- Follow the steps on the screen and copy and paste the code from your verification app;
- Take a screenshot of the backup codes on the screen. With these codes you can always regain access to your account if you cannot receive a security code via SMS.
The next time you want to log in to Instagram, first copy the code in the authentication app so that you can use it to confirm your identity.
This is how you set up two-step verification via SMS for Instagram
- Go through steps 1 to 4 of the above instruction;
- Slide the switch next to ‘Text message’ to the right;
- If no phone number has been added to your account yet, you will be prompted to do so now. To do this, press ‘Add number’;
- Then enter your telephone number and confirm the telephone number with the code that will be sent to you;
- Take a screenshot of the backup codes on the screen.
If you go through these steps, Instagram will from now on send you a text message when you need to confirm your identity. Take advantage of this moment to provide extra security for your other accounts.
Read everything about the monthly theme of Security
- Apple gives hackers special iPhones to check iOS security (23-12-2020)
- Tip: recognize and prevent WhatsApp fraud in 6 steps (12-10-2020)
- Secure your Twitter account with two-factor authentication: that’s how it works (7/26/2020)
- Tip: Make your Mac’s hard drive (Book) more secure with FileVault (7/19/2020)
- Make your Apple device more secure with two-factor authentication – that’s how it works (6/27/2020)