Two-factor authentication, or 2FA, is a typical routine many people do on their devices. 2FA is required when users log in to their accounts online, whether it’s social media, email, or banking accounts. After entering your username and password, the application will prompt you to retrieve your phone’s short message service (SMS) PIN code or an authenticator app. This temporary personal identification number is needed for two-factor authentication (2FA) to provide an additional layer of security.
Implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) as a security measure is recommended to prevent unauthorized access to your business accounts. It is an essential part of your overall strategy to safeguard your business. While SMS texting is an easy option for 2FA, more secure methods are available. App authenticators are another popular option for two-factor authentication but have some vulnerabilities that businesses must be aware of. This article will help us understand the two widely used two-factor authentication systems, app authenticator vs. SMS, and which is better.
What is Two Factor Authentication (2FA)?
Using Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is crucial for maintaining the security of any account. The system is meant to stop people who do not have permission from accessing an account by using a password they stole. Someone using the same password on multiple websites might be more likely to have their password stolen without realizing it. Additionally, downloading specific software or clicking on links in emails could make it easier for someone to steal a password.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is not limited to online situations. It also applies when a person must enter their zip code to use their credit card at a gas pump or enter an authentication code from an RSA SecurID key fob to log in to their employer’s system remotely.
Although the two-step verification of 2FA may seem inconvenient, it plays a crucial role in maintaining online safety. 2FA requires authentication through two different methods, which adds significant extra security measures in a world where personal data is frequently at risk.
An example of 2FA is when a user enters their username and password for their email account and then receives a text message with an authentication code that they must enter to log in.
How Does 2FA Work?
Two-factor authentication works by using two different methods of verifying your identity to enhance the security of your account. Typically, the second method consists of something you possess, like your phone, which must be confirmed after you enter your username and password.
Using only a password and a security question for login or access is not secure because if someone knows the password, they can easily guess the security question. On the other hand, accessing a different factor, like a personal phone, makes it much more difficult for unauthorized users to gain access. It is why two-factor authentication is a much more secure option. Three main factors make two-factor authentication work.
Two-factor authentication requires two out of the following three factors: something you know (such as a password), something you have (like a bank card), and something you are (like a face ID). Meanwhile, multi-factor authentication may use all three, including GPS tracking, to verify your location.
For an authentication method to be considered as two-factor, it is required to use two distinctive types of factors. Using only a username and a password is not 2FA since both are knowledge factors. Even if a security question is added, it still does not satisfy 2FA criteria, as a security question is also a knowledge factor.
Why is 2FA Necessary?
Two-factor authentication is a better way to control access than relying solely on passwords to protect your personal data. Even if someone can hack into an account with 2FA, they won’t be able to access it without knowing the second access factor, such as an SMS verification code or your fingerprint.
Without two-factor authentication (2FA), your password is the only thing standing between a hacker or cybercriminal and access to your Facebook account. This could result in your data being sold on dark web marketplaces.
Hackers can easily crack simple passwords using advanced techniques nowadays, making them ineffective in protecting user accounts. It can become a serious problem during data breaches, releasing thousands or even millions of passwords. Companies like Facebook and Google respond to such threats by introducing 2FA to safeguard user information.
2FA is necessary to keep your accounts secure from cybercriminals and hackers. By implementing 2FA, you can be sure that even if someone else knows your password, they won’t be able to access your account without knowing the second factor.
How is 2FA for SMS Authenticator?
SMS two-factor authentication, also called SMS one-time password (OTP) or SMS 2FA, is a security system that uses a code sent through text messages to verify the identity of users. This code serves as a secondary verification method for users who want to access a network, application, or system. Using SMS two-factor authentication is essential for enhancing security for individuals and businesses.
SMS 2FA involves sending a code to your mobile device via text message when you attempt to log into an account. Before access is granted, this code must be entered in addition to your username and password.
SMS two-factor authentication can also be used for other security measures beyond logging into accounts, such as confirming transactions or resetting passwords. In some cases, SMS two-factor authentication may be required to make specific changes or access files on a network.
Read What is SMS Verfication to understand the crucial role of SMS 2FA for verification of customer accounts.
What are the Advantages of 2FA with SMS?
Businesses today enjoy many benefits of SMS 2FA, despite some concerns about its use. However, the advantages of SMS authentication outweigh any potential drawbacks.
- Secure – Using SMS 2FA enhances security compared to solely relying on a password, as it demands two kinds of verification – what the user knows (i.e., their password) and what they possess (their mobile device).
- Convenience – People often reuse passwords because they are required to remember many different passwords for their numerous online accounts. Studies show that, on average, individuals must remember ten passwords daily. Nevertheless, SMS authentication can make this easier by sending unique codes straight to users. Users can enter these codes on a website or app to verify their identities.
- Better than no 2FA – SMS authentication is safer than using a single factor for proving identity because using multiple pieces of information increases security.
- Low cost – Businesses find SMS authentication attractive because it is usually less expensive than other two-factor authentication methods.
What are the Disadvantages of 2FA with SMS?
Despite its many benefits, SMS authentication does come with some security risks that businesses must consider.
- Social engineering attacks – Phishing attacks are just as common on mobile devices as they are on computers., These involve scammers pretending to be a trusted organization to trick people into giving away personal information, passwords, and SMS codes. These attacks can result in unauthorized access for scammers.
- Lost and synced devices – Mobile devices are often lost or stolen, which makes using SMS authentication risky. This danger increases if the device is logged into social media accounts or banking applications. Malicious individuals can access text messages and other data from multiple smartphones, laptops, tablets, and wearables if devices are synced.
- SIM swapping – Receiving an authentication code on a personal mobile phone is only partially secure. Hackers can access SMS messages by contacting the phone company and providing the target’s personal information, like their SSN, to request a number transfer. By doing this, they can receive any authentication code sent via SMS to the transferred number.
Is 2FA with SMS Safe?
Yes. Using SMS for two-factor authentication is a secure method to prevent unauthorized access. This extra security layer adds complexity to account access procedures, which makes it harder for bad actors to gain entry. But, businesses should be mindful of the potential risks associated with SMS authentication and take measures to minimize them.
To keep customer data safe, businesses should use a robust data security system with fewer vulnerabilities than SMS 2FA. Criminals can intercept, phish, or fake SMS messages in multiple ways. To further protect accounts, businesses can use multi-factor authentication that combines SMS with other verification methods, such as biometrics or one-time passwords (OTPs).
How is 2FA for App Authenticator?
Authenticator apps provide a more secure, reliable, and faster alternative for second-level authentication in 2FA. Authenticator apps function similarly to SMS texts. Users receive a code on their device, which they use with their username and password to access their accounts. However, these apps are linked directly to the physical device. Unlike SMS, the codes are not transmitted over the mobile network, which prevents hackers from intercepting them. As a result, even if hackers were to redirect your number, they still would need to receive the codes.
The authenticator app can create a code or a prompt to authenticate user activity on a new device when installed on a trusted device. They can also reset the temporary passcode more quickly than usual via SMS. Due to this framework, it is not susceptible to the SIM swap attacks mentioned earlier. Authenticator apps may include dedicated services, such as Authy or Google Authenticator. Alternatively, a notification may be sent through an existing app like Gmail or Yahoo Sports to confirm a new login attempt made for your Google or Yahoo account.
What are the Advantages of 2FA with App Authenticator?
Authenticator apps can provide more secure two-factor authentication than less reliable SMS text messages. The advantages include:
- More secure – Authenticator apps are linked directly to the physical device, so hackers cannot intercept codes on the mobile network. It makes them a much safer second factor of authentication than SMS texts.
- Higher speed – Authenticator apps generate codes much faster than SMS texts, which makes them more practical for those who need to authenticate frequently.
- More reliable – Codes generated via authenticator apps are always available even when users experience network issues. It eliminates the risk of not receiving a code via SMS due to a poor connection.
- Self-Contained – The 2FA codes are secure within the app, so hackers cannot steal and access your account.
What are the Disadvantages of 2FA with App Authenticator?
Although authenticator apps are considered more secure than SMS texts, they also have some drawbacks, such as:
- Compatibility issues – Authenticator apps may not be compatible with certain websites and applications. For example, Apple’s two-factor authentication only works with its products and services, meaning it won’t work on a different mobile device.
- Increased setup time – Authenticator apps require a bit more effort for setup than SMS verification. However, once configured, the codes will be available on any device with the app installed.
- Loss of authentication data – If users delete or have to reinstall an authenticator app, they may lose all of their two-factor authentication data, which could cause delays in logging into their accounts.
- Can be repetitive – If you use a different device, you must set up the syncing individually, which can be a problem. Additionally, after the initial setup, you must re-sync all your accounts on a new phone. However, Authy solves this issue by syncing over multiple devices so you won’t face this problem.
Is 2FA with App Authenticator Safe?
Yes. Authenticator apps function similarly to SMS text, where users receive a code on their device. However, the app is tied to the physical device in this case, and the codes are not sent via the mobile network. It becomes impossible for hackers to intercept the codes, even if they reroute the user’s number. The codes must still be used with the username and password for account logins.
To use the authenticator for the account you want to access, you must pair the app on your device with the account first. If you switch devices, you need to repeat the pairing process. Authentication apps like Google Authenticator, Authy, and Microsoft Authenticator are highly recommended for businesses to strengthen their data security. Adding an authenticator app for two-factor authentication is an effective security measure that should be included in your data management plan.
Which One Should I Use for 2FA?
SMS and authenticator apps for 2FA are both effective methods of authentication. The main difference is that authenticator apps are linked directly to your device, so hackers cannot intercept codes on the mobile network. Authenticator apps can be used by businesses to enhance the security of logins for email, different business apps, remote logins, and other purposes. Although some web services may not have incorporated authenticator apps, businesses can still implement them to safeguard operations. This can reassure that authorized personnel will only access data with a more secure verification process.
How to Enable App Authenticator on Your Mobile Device?
If you wish to use an authenticator app for 2FA, you must download, install and enable it on your mobile device. The steps are as follows:
- Download the authenticator app on your device. Popular options include Google Authenticator, Authy, and Microsoft Authenticator.
- Open the installed application and tap ‘Begin Setup’ to create your account.
- Select ‘Add an Account’ and connect it with the website or service you wish to use 2FA for.
- If you are asked to scan a QR code, open the website and go to its two-factor authentication settings page. Find the QR code option and use your phone’s camera to scan it with the authenticator app.
- Enter the 6-digit code generated by the app in the appropriate field on the website or service you wish to access.
What are the Similarities of App Authenticator and SMS Text Messages for 2FA?
Authenticator apps and SMS texts both provide two-factor authentication. However, there are some similarities and differences that you should be aware of. The similarities between these two authentication systems include the following:
- Both methods require a username and password to log in. In both cases, the user is asked to enter a code sent via SMS text or generated by an authenticator app. The codes are used for verification purposes and expire after a particular time.
- Both methods can be used with services like Google, Yahoo, and Facebook for enhanced security.
- Both authentication systems validate online transactions and logins to prevent unauthorized access.
- SMS texts and authenticator apps provide an extra layer of security when logging into your accounts, ensuring that only the correct user has access.
- Authenticator apps and SMS text messages use codes sent out from a secure server, ensuring that hackers cannot intercept the code. The codes generated by both methods are random and unique, making it impossible for hackers to guess or predict them.
- SMS texts and authenticator apps provide a one-time use code so that they cannot reuse even if someone has the code.
- Lastly, both authentication systems can be enabled or disabled depending on the user’s preference.
The main difference between these two methods is that authenticator apps are linked directly to the user’s device, so hackers cannot intercept the codes sent via SMS text. It is more secure and reliable than just a username and password. Additionally, some services may still need to incorporate authenticator apps, which can be a disadvantage. However, businesses can still implement it to strengthen their data security.
Is App Authenticator Easy to Hack?
No. App authenticator is highly secure and difficult to hack. The codes generated by an authenticator app are random and unique, making it impossible for hackers to predict or guess them. Furthermore, the codes are sent directly to your device from a secure server, so there is no way for hackers to intercept the code even if they reroute your number. For this reason, app authenticators are preferred over SMS text messages for two-factor authentication.
Can SMS Authenticator Be Used In Different Country?
Yes. You can use an SMS authenticator with internet access and a valid mobile number in different countries. The code sent in an SMS authenticator message will be generated on a secure server and sent directly to your device.
Can a Virtual Number Recieve SMS 2FA?
Yes. You can use virtual numbers to receive SMS two-factor authentication codes. SMS Virtual numbers are used for masking the actual phone number and are usually associated with an app or VoIP service. It allows you to receive messages from multiple sources without providing your actual number. However, you may need to verify your virtual number with the service provider to receive the code.
