Google Strengthens Accounts with USB Security Key

Google users are now able to secure their accounts with a physical USB security key acting as a second factor in the authentication process, according to a Google blog post.

Google has been exploring the possibilities of hardware authentication since 2012, however the official announcement came a day ago. “Today we`re adding even stronger protection for particularly security-sensitive individuals,” Nishit Shah, Product Manager at Google Security said.

The Security Key first verifies the authenticity of the Google login page. After entering the account credentials, the key needs to be inserted in the computer`s USB port and tapped, when prompted.

“When you sign into your Google Account using Chrome and Security Key, you can be sure that the cryptographic signature cannot be phished,” Google added.

The Security Key is also functional on other websites where the Universal 2nd Factor (U2F) is supported.

Two-factor authentication is a security feature that requires users to confirm their identity by entering a code sent to something they own, usually a mobile device, after signing in. Learn how to set it up here.