Google Authenticator Upgrades Security with Cloud Sync for 2FA Codes

In a move that promises to simplify the lives of avid users of Google Authenticator, the popular two-factor authentication app has just received a significant upgrade. The Authenticator app now has the option to sync one-time 2FA codes with users’ Google Accounts, making it easier to access these codes from any device.

Until now, users had to rely on a single device to store these codes locally, which could become a significant inconvenience in case of device loss. This new feature is set to make 2FA more user-friendly and accessible. With this latest update, users can access their codes on any device once they sign in to their Google account, making device upgrades and replacements less of a hassle.

“One major piece of feedback we’ve heard from users over the years was the complexity of dealing with lost or stolen devices that had Google Authenticator installed. Since one-time codes in Authenticator were only stored on a single device, a loss of that device meant that users lost their ability to sign in to any service on which they’d set up 2FA using Authenticator,” Google said in a blog post.

“With this update we’re rolling out a solution to this problem, making one-time codes more durable by storing them safely in users’ Google accounts,” Google added.

Who Is This Update For?

Google Authenticator users can now heave a sigh of relief as the popular two-factor authentication app announces the addition of a new feature for Android and iOS devices. The app now allows users to securely back up their one-time codes, also known as one-time passwords (OTPs), to their Google accounts. This means that in case of device loss or upgrades, users can quickly and easily retrieve their OTPs without any hassle. This new feature adds an extra layer of convenience and security to the already reliable Authenticator app, making it more user-friendly than ever before.

How to Get The New Update for Google Authenticator?

Update the app to the most recent version to take advantage of cloud syncing for 2FA codes. Google has provided a detailed support page for this feature, which users can access for more information.

App Prerequisites to Use it On Android and iOS

• Your device must be at or above Android version 4.4 & on the latest version of iOS respectively on Android and iOS platforms.
• The Two-step verification must be turned on.

Read Also: How Google Plans to Control Fake Android Apps

Cloud Syncing Can Be Risky, Despite Its Convenience

While cloud syncing provides a convenient way to access data and services from multiple devices, it also comes with potential risks to the security and privacy of users’ data. The option to sync one-time passcodes to the cloud may increase the risk of malicious actors targeting your Google accounts. If they manage to breach an account, they could potentially gain access to a plethora of sensitive accounts, making the accounts more attractive targets for hackers.

So, make your decision wisely.

Stay Connected Across All Your Devices Using Google Authenticator

Thanks to this new update, one-time codes are now securely stored in users’ Google accounts, making them more durable and reliable. This means users are better protected from being locked out of their accounts, and services can rely on users to retain access, improving both safety and ease. The update also comes with a revamped logo for the app, switching from the old drab vault look to an asterisk in the search giant’s colors.

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Next Read: Top 5 Secure Alternatives To Google Authenticator App