Instagram Adds Two-Step Authetication to Fight Account Hacking

Facebook-owned Instagram started implementing the two-step authentication security feature to help prevent account hacking.

Until now, Instagram has only used one-step authentication, with classic username and password login algorithms. Users can now activate two-step authentication and receive an SMS with a temporary login code.

The decision comes after multiple accounts were hacked last year, including those of public figures such as Taylor Swift and Kris Jenner.

Recently, the company has also allowed users to switch between accounts without signing out, another feature customers asked for.

Two-factor authentication requires users to confirm their identity by entering a code sent to a device after signing in. As with many banking services, the extra step is meant to double access strength and reduce the risk of data thieves breaking into people’s accounts, even if their password is stolen or cracked. Here is a short guide to help you enable two-factor authentication for your Google, Facebook, Twitter, Dropbox, Yahoo, PayPal and Apple accounts.