Google announces 2-Step Verification auto enrollments to protect internet users

Google has announced the expansion of its two-step verification (2SV) process for log-ins to improve account security after its newly introduced two-step verification initiative saw a 50% drop in account breaches for 150 million Gmail and 2 million YouTube creators accounts under the 2SV initiative.

The 2SV introduces the use of mobile phones to confirm a user’s identity every time they access their Google Account from a different device.

In keeping with this year’s global Safer Internet Day theme, “Together for a better Internet,” Google is actively developing new technologies that will provide a secure, seamless sign-in experience and eliminate reliance on passwords, which has proven to be a major source of data breaches and phishing attempts. Passwords are often difficult for users to remember, and they must be updated on a regular basis.

“We don’t just plug security holes; we work to eliminate entire classes of threats for the people who rely on us.” Today alone, billions of people around the world will use our products to assist with tasks large and small, such as conducting e-payment transactions or teaching an online class with a large number of students. “It is our responsibility to keep users’ personal information safe and secure,” says Dawn Dimowo, Nigeria’s Government Affairs & Public Policy Manager.

Google offers tools such as Security Checkup, which gives users practical advice on how to improve the security of their Google Account. Google accelerated its effort to eliminate password threats in 2021 by beginning to auto-enroll users in 2SV, providing people with an extra layer of security when cybercriminals attempt to hack into their accounts. More than 1.5 billion security checks were performed as part of the initiative.

“This decrease demonstrates how having a second form of verification can help protect your data and personal information.” And, while we are proud of these initial results and pleased with the response from our users and the community, we are also excited about other ongoing behind-the-scenes work aimed at making our users even safer,” Dimowo adds.

Google recommends performing regular Security Check-Ups to ensure that accounts are prepared for recovery by adding a phone number and a backup email. It protects accounts and prevents bad actors from accessing them.

Additionally, Google recommends using Google Password Manager, which is built directly into Chrome, Android, and the Google App, to create safe passwords for all online accounts, including shopping, banking, and e-learning sites.