Last updated: February 20, 2023, 12:26 PM IST
Twitter is bringing this security feature to Blue
Twitter is going to stop offering SMS verification for non-Blue customers.
Twitter has confirmed that all non-Blue subscribers will lose access to the two-factor protection starting March 20. This means that if you don’t pay for the Twitter Blue service (Rs 900 per month on mobile in India), you won’t be able to secure your Twitter account using the SMS two-factor authentication. This bizarre decision has drawn flak from everyone and points the finger at Elon Musk, but many security experts don’t think it’s the worst thing that could happen to millions of Twitter users.
If you don’t want to pay for Twitter Blue and still have two-layer security, there are other options available on the platform. Instead of using SMS, which is not considered the most secure option, you can switch to an authenticator app that offers better security for your accounts. You can rely on these apps from Google, Microsoft and Authy, among others. Users also have the option of using password managers to secure their accounts.
To be fair, Twitter has explained the reason for this move, citing the potential threats from malicious parties who can manipulate SMS verification by cloning or swapping the SIM cards.
How to Secure a Twitter Account Using the Authenticator App
So, how can you change this security setting on Twitter and secure your account? These are the steps to follow:
– Open Settings on the Twitter web app
– Click on Security and account access
– Tap Security
– Go to Two-factor authentication
– Disable the SMS option by logging in with your password
– Click on Authentication app
– You need to install one authenticator app to start the process
– Scan the QR code you see on the Twitter web version
– Enter the six-digit code to confirm the authentication process
Twitter has given its users ample time to implement the change, and we hope you use at least one of these methods to secure your account. Or you can always pay the Twitter Blue subscription fee and secure it through the traditional SMS system.
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