What is 2-step verification, and why is it so important?

Unfortunately, it’s easier than you think for someone to steal your password(s). And when the wrong person gains access to your email account, they can wreak havoc on your life by doing one or all of the following:  

• Go through your emails, contacts, photos, etc. and delete or harvest information.
• Pretend to be you and send unwanted or harmful phishing emails to your contacts
• Use your account to reset the passwords for your other accounts (banking, shopping, etc.) or worse!

You can avoid falling victim to these well-known cybercrimes by simply enabling the 2-Step Verification setting on your FIT Google account. 

With 2-Step Verification turned on, you will need to take “two steps” to log in to your FIT Gmail account.  2-Step Verification can help keep bad guys out, even if they have your password.

What is 2-Step Verification?
2-Step Verification is an additional security feature designed to prevent unauthorized access to your Google account. Even if someone else gets your password, it won’t be enough to sign in to your account.

How does it work?
First, you must enable your account for 2-step verification. This will require you to know your FIT password and have your mobile device ready.

After you enable 2-step verification, as the name indicates, you will have to complete 2-steps to access your account.
Step 1, log into your FIT Google Apps for Education account as you normally do from a computer (or mobile browser).
Step 2, enter the verification code sent to your mobile device via text, voice, or the mobile app. Note: the code can only be used once – you will need to repeat this process each time you access your account. During sign-in, you can choose not to use 2-Step Verification again on that particular computer. From then on, that computer will only ask for your password when you sign in. You’ll still be covered because when you or anyone else tries to sign in to your account from another computer, 2-Step Verification will be required.

Who is this for?
2-step verification is for everyone! It is the best way to keep your account secure.  Each time you access a new computer, you will need to complete 2-steps to access your account. If you often forget your phone and use multiple computers, you may want to reconsider using 2-step verification.

Keep in mind there are backup options for verification codes for when your phone is not available. You may also request that 2-step verification be turned off for your account by emailing TechHelp@fitnyc.edu with a photo of yourself with your FIT ID card or valid photo ID to validate who you are.

Read more about Google Security on our post on How to Check for Suspicious Activity on Your Account.