Microsoft authenticator.
Google Authenticator
LastPass Authenticator
Authenticator apps are mobile applications that generate time-sensitive codes for two-factor authentication (2FA). These apps enhance security by requiring a second step beyond just a password to log in to accounts. Instead of receiving a code via SMS, users open the authenticator app to get a unique verification code that refreshes every 30 seconds.
Google Authenticator – A simple and widely used authenticator that generates 2FA codes for various accounts.
Microsoft Authenticator – Offers one-tap sign-ins and works well with Microsoft accounts but can be used for other services.
Authy – A user-friendly app that allows multi-device synchronization and backup, making it easier to recover accounts.
LastPass Authenticator – Works with the LastPass password manager and provides push notifications for quick logins.
Duo Mobile – Frequently used by businesses and universities, featuring both code generation and push notifications.
1Password Authenticator – Built into the 1Password password manager, making it convenient for users already using 1Password.
For a simple and user-friendly experience, the best options are:
Microsoft Authenticator – Offers a one-tap approval process, avoiding the need to type in codes.
Authy – Provides backups and multi-device support, making account recovery easier.
Google Authenticator – Simple interface, but doesn’t offer backups, which may be a downside.
More Secure – Prevents phishing attacks that target SMS codes.
Works Offline – No need for an internet or cell signal.
Fast and Convenient – Generates codes instantly without waiting for a text message.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up an Authenticator App
(For Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, and Authy)
Select an authenticator app that best suits your needs: ✔ Google Authenticator (Simple and widely used) ✔ Microsoft Authenticator (One-tap approval, easy for beginners) ✔ Authy (Best for backups and multi-device use)
Open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android).
Search for the app you want to use:
Google Authenticator
Microsoft Authenticator
Authy
Tap Install or Get and wait for the app to download.
On a computer or another device, open the website of the service you want to protect (e.g., Gmail, Facebook, Amazon, your bank).
Go to Security Settings or Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).
Select Set Up an Authenticator App instead of SMS codes.
The website will display a QR code.
Open your Authenticator App.
Tap Add Account or Scan a QR Code.
Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code on your computer screen.
The app will now display a 6-digit code for that account.
On your computer, type the 6-digit code from your authenticator app into the website.
Click Verify or Confirm.
Some services provide backup codes in case you lose your phone.
Write them down or save them in a safe place (like a password manager).
Log out of your account.
Try logging back in.
When prompted for a second step, open your Authenticator App, find the code, and enter it.
For Microsoft accounts:
Instead of entering a code, you’ll receive a notification on your phone.
Just tap Approve to log in. No typing needed!
Google Authenticator: You must manually transfer accounts. If you lose your phone, you could be locked out.
Microsoft Authenticator & Authy: These have backup options and allow account recovery on a new device.
✅ Always use an authenticator app instead of SMS for better security.
✅ Authy is best for beginners because it saves accounts to the cloud.
✅ Microsoft Authenticator is easiest because of one-tap approvals.
✅ Keep backup codes safe in case you lose access to the app.
There is now a sophisticated phishing scam targeting PayPal users. Scammers send emails that appear to be from PayPal, aiming to steal personal information or install malware. A notable tactic involves the "gift address" feature. In this scenario, scammers gain unauthorized access to a user's PayPal account and add a new shipping address, referred to as a "gift address." They then make purchases using the compromised account, directing items to the fraudulent address. Since PayPal allows multiple shipping addresses, users might not immediately notice the addition, making this method particularly deceptive.
To protect yourself:
Regularly Review Account Details: Periodically check your PayPal account for unfamiliar shipping addresses or recent activity.
Enable Account Alerts: Activate notifications for account changes and transactions to stay informed about any unauthorized activity.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Ensure your PayPal password is robust and not used elsewhere.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adding an extra layer of security can prevent unauthorized access.
Verify the Sender's Address: Ensure the email is from an authentic PayPal domain. Be cautious of addresses that closely resemble official ones but may have subtle differences.
Look for Personalized Greetings: PayPal emails typically address you by your first and last name or business name. Generic greetings like "Dear user" can be a red flag.
PayPal
Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links: Hover over links to see their true destination. If uncertain, don't click. Instead, manually type 'www.paypal.com' into your browser to access your account.
PayPal
Beware of Attachments: Legitimate PayPal emails do not include attachments. Opening unexpected attachments can expose your device to malware.
PayPal
Be Cautious of Urgent Requests: Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to prompt quick action. Always verify such claims directly through your PayPal account.
Check for Fake Links: Before clicking, hover over links to see their actual URL. Scammers may use deceptive URLs to mimic legitimate websites.
PayPal
Report Suspicious Communications: If you receive a dubious email, forward it to phishing@paypal.com for investigation.
PayPal
Log in to PayPal: Go to PayPal’s website and sign in.
Go to 'Activity': Click on "Activity" at the top of the page.
Review Transactions: Look for any unfamiliar transactions or payments. If you spot something suspicious, click on the transaction for details.
Go to 'Settings': Click the gear icon ⚙️ in the top-right corner.
Select ‘Addresses’: Scroll down to the ‘Manage Addresses’ section.
Look for Unknown Addresses: If you see an unfamiliar shipping address, remove it immediately.
Go to 'Wallet': Click on "Wallet" in the menu.
Check Linked Cards and Banks: Ensure there are no unfamiliar or newly added bank accounts or credit cards.
Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
Go to Settings > Security.
Enable 2-step verification for extra security.
Set Up Email & Mobile Alerts:
In Settings > Notifications, enable alerts for transactions and account changes.
If you notice unauthorized transactions:
Report it to PayPal:
Go to Activity > Select the suspicious transaction > Click ‘Report a Problem’.
Contact PayPal Support:
Visit the PayPal Resolution Center to file a dispute.
You can also forward suspicious emails to phishing@paypal.com.
Google has provided several recommendations to protect Gmail accounts from AI-powered hacking attempts: (Perplexity summary with links to the articles which describe the advice)
Enable the Advanced Protection Program, which requires security keys for login and offers enhanced defenses against sophisticated phishing attacks5.
Use passkeys instead of traditional passwords for stronger authentication1.
Regularly check your Gmail account for unfamiliar logins by scrolling to the bottom of the Gmail web client and clicking on "Details" under "Last account activity"1.
Never share verification codes or passwords via phone or email, as Google will never request these through such channels1.
Report suspicious emails using Gmail's built-in reporting tool to help Google identify and block new threats faster1.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Google account for an extra layer of security4.
Do not click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails or text messages, even if they appear to come from a trusted source7.
Manually visit websites by typing the URL into your browser instead of clicking on links in emails7.
Verify any requests for personal information by directly visiting your Google account page in a new browser window, without clicking on any provided links7.
Be cautious of AI-generated voice calls claiming to be from Google support, and hang up if you receive such a call4.
By following these guidelines, Gmail users can significantly enhance their account security against AI-driven phishing attacks and other sophisticated cyber threats.
https://www.pcmag.com/news/google-is-replacing-sms-codes-with-qr-codes-for-gmail-authentication
Google is enhancing Gmail's security by replacing SMS-based verification codes with QR codes. This change aims to protect users from security threats associated with text message codes, such as phishing attacks and SMS fraud. Instead of receiving a six-digit code via SMS, users will scan a QR code with their smartphone's camera to verify their identity. This method is more secure, as QR codes are harder to intercept or fake. Additionally, it simplifies the login process by eliminating the need to wait for a text message or manually enter a code. Google plans to implement this update in the coming months.
Go to https://myaccount.google.com/security-checkup/5
Follow suggestions