Social media cyberattacks are on the rise, putting Twitter accounts at risk. Just last year, 130 high-profile accounts were breached, including those of major public figures. As threats increase, Twitter has limited SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) in favor of more secure app-based 2FA.
If you still rely on text messages for 2FA login codes, you‘ll soon need to switch over to an authenticator app to keep your account protected. Don‘t wait until the last minute — follow this comprehensive guide to learn about the risks, securely enable app-based 2FA, and safeguard your account starting today.
Why We Need to Transition from SMS-Based to App-Based 2FA
Before we get into the setup details, let‘s discuss why Twitter is making this change and how app-based 2FA will better secure your account.
The Problem with SMS Authentication
For years, sending SMS text messages containing 2FA codes was considered reasonably secure. So why strengthen security further now by limiting this option?
As cyberattacks grow more advanced, SMS messages have proven vulnerable:
- SIM swapping: Criminals social engineer mobile providers to assign your number to their device
- SS7 exploits: Hackers exploit weaknesses in telephony protocols
- Phishing: Attackers intercept text-based 2FA codes via phishing
With access to your texts, hackers can log into your accounts. Even with a strong password, SMS-based 2FA has become a security liability.
How App-Based 2FA Improves Protection
Dedicated authenticator apps address the weaknesses of SMS-based authentication in a few key ways:
- No transmission: Random codes are generated locally and not sent/received over networks
- Time restriction: New codes are generated every 30 seconds
- Encryption: Traffic is encrypted between app and provider
This means even if hackers breach part of the infrastructure, the log-in codes remain inaccessible to them.
2FA Comes in Different Forms
To understand the shift to apps, it helps to know some key types of 2FA:
| Method | Description | Security Level |
|---|---|---|
| SMS | Text messsage with code | Low |
| TOTP | App generates time-based codes | Medium |
| U2F | Physical security key | High |
For most individuals, time-based one-time password (TOTP) authenticator apps strike the right balance of improved security without significant inconvenience. Let‘s look at how to set them up.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Enable App-Based 2FA
The process for enabling 2FA through an authenticator app is quick and straightforward:
1. Install an Authenticator App
First, download a TOTP authenticator app if you haven‘t already. There are great options for both iPhone and Android. We‘ll cover some top recommendations shortly.
2. Access Twitter‘s 2FA Settings
In your Twitter account settings, navigate to Security and account access > Security then scroll down and click Two-factor authentication. Select Authentication app as your preferred method.
3. Configure TOTP Authentication
You‘ll be shown a QR code. Open your preferred authenticator app on your smartphone and scan the code using the app‘s QR scanner. This links your Twitter account securely.
Alternatively, you can manually enter the textual key displayed on the setup screen.
4. Enter the 6-digit Code
After scanning the code, the authenticator app will begin showing 6-digit verification codes that refresh every 30 seconds. Enter the current code into the Twitter setup page.
Once successfully verified, future logins will prompt you for both your Twitter password and the latest 6-digit app code, adding critical second factor protection.
Top Authenticator Apps for iOS and Android
The industry leader is Google Authenticator, but there are a few other excellent options to consider:
| App | Pros | Cons | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Authenticator | Trusted name; simple and reliable | Lacks backups |  |
| Microsoft Authenticator | Passwordless login to Microsoft apps | Tied to Microsoft ecosystem |  |
| Authy | Cloud backups available | Requires phone # |  |
| 2FAS | User-friendly design | No backups | |
I recommend Authy as it balances security and usability with optional cloud backups. Avoid options that have experienced breaches. Read authenticator app reviews and ratings carefully before deciding.
Final Words: Prioritize Account Security Now
Cybercrime targeting social media users is rising. Twitter limiting SMS-based 2FA closes one vulnerability but cyberattacks will only grow more sophisticated.
Enabling app-based two-factor authentication is crucial first step to lock down your account security. Combine it with strong unique passwords, alertness against phishing attempts, and extra measures like security keys where possible.
Taking a few minutes to switch to app-based 2FA will make a major difference against the threat of account takeovers, hacking, and identity theft. As cybersecurity professionals learn of new attack vectors, we‘ll keep you updated with the latest practical steps to stay safe online.
