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Why two-factor authentication is important
A password is a single point of failure. It can be picked up, stolen through phishing or a base leak. Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a second barrier: in addition to knowing the password, you need a temporary code, push confirmation, biometrics or a hardware key. Even if the password is compromised, access without the second factor is almost impossible.
What is 2FA in simple words
2FA = what you know (password) + what you have (phone/key) or what you are (biometrics).
Common options:- TOTP codes in the application (Google Authenticator, 1Password, Aegis, etc.).
- Push confirmations (click "Yes" in the application/mail/bank).
- SMS codes (less reliable, but better than nothing).
- FIDO2/WebAuthn hardware keys (YubiKey, SoloKey) are a phishing-resistant gold standard.
- Passkeys (access keys): a modern version without passwords, based on FIDO2, often with biometrics.
Why it matters (digital risk logic)
80-90% of thefts are due to weak/reusable passwords and phishing. 2FA "breaks" most of these scenarios.
Phishing resistance: TOTP already helps a lot, and FIDO2/passkeys practically eliminate phishing by linking to a domain.
Value protection: access to finance, game balances, personal correspondence, restoration of other services (via mail).
Damage reduction: even if the password is leaked, the attacker will rest on the second factor and you will have time to change the password/revoke sessions.
Comparison of methods (what to choose)
FIDO2/Passkeys - # 1 in safety and convenience; without codes and SMS; works on modern devices/browsers.
TOTP app - # 2: offline codes, fast and free.
Push confirmation - convenient, but vulnerable to "Push bombing" (confirm only expected requests).
SMS - basic level: saves, but vulnerable to SIM swap/interception. Use if there are no other options.
How to enable 2FA (step by step)
Universal plan
1. Go to the service security settings (Account → Security → Two-factor authentication).
2. Select the method, preferably Passkey/FIDO2 or TOTP application.
3. Save the backup codes in the password manager/offline.
4. Add a backup factor: a second key, a second phone, or printed codes.
5. Enable logon alerts and check the log of active sessions.
Quick scenarios
TOTP: Scan the QR code with the application → enter the 6-digit code → save the backup codes.
Passkey/FIDO2: add a key (USB-NFC/Bluetooth) or system biometrics → confirm login on the device → add a second key as a backup.
SMS: link the number → confirm the code →, if possible, later migrate to TOTP/Passkey.
Backup and recovery (key to peace of mind)
Two factors - two media: for example, a phone with TOTP + a hardware key in a safe.
Backup codes: print/encrypt and store separately from the phone.
A password manager (1Password/Bitwarden, etc.) can synchronize TOTP and store passkeys - this is a convenient "plan B."
Have you changed your phone? First drag TOTP/passkeys, then reset the old one.
Typical attacks and how 2FA helps
Phishing login pages: TOTP/Passkeys cut risk; FIDO2 will not allow you to log in to a fake domain.
Password brute force/leak: 2FA blocks input; you see the alert and change the password.
SIM swap: bypasses SMS in favor of TOTP/Passkeys.
Push-bombing: don't press Yes to unexpected requests; enable "require PIN/biometrics for confirmation."
Best practices (short and on the case)
Unique long passwords + password manager.
2FA wherever there is money/mail/social media. Mail - priority number 1.
FIDO2/Passkeys where supported TOTP - as a universal standard.
Two independent reserves: spare key/device + backup codes.
Disable SMS when a stronger factor appears.
Regularly check active sessions and devices; get out of excess.
Frequent user errors
1. 2FA via SMS only - temporarily ok, but switch to TOTP/Passkeys.
2. No backup codes - lost phone = lost access.
3. One key for everything - broken/lost = complex recovery.
4. Blindly confirming pooches - train yourself to check entry details.
5. Procrastination - turning on 2FA takes less than a minute.
Checklist for 5 minutes
- Included 2FA for mail, bank/wallets, social media, casino/playgrounds.
- I chose a strong method: Passkeys/FIDO2 or TOTP.
- Saved backup codes offline.
- Added backup factor (second key/device).
- Enabled logon notifications and checked active sessions.
Mini-FAQ
Is Passkeys the same as 2FA?
Passkeys can completely replace the password and the second factor: cryptography is tied to the site and your device, which gives the level of "2FA without pain."
If the service does not support Passkeys?
Use the TOTP application. It is more reliable than SMS and works offline.
Do I need to include 2FA where "I have nothing to steal"?
Need to. Through such an account, attackers often reset access to more important services.
What if I lose my phone/key?
Use backup codes or backup factor; then untie the lost device and release the new key.
2FA is the cheapest and fastest upgrade to your digital security. Password + second factor stops the vast majority of attacks, and Passkeys/FIDO2 make phishing practically useless. Spend 5 minutes: turn on 2FA, save the reserve and add a spare key - and your accounts will be higher in security.