What is two-factor authentication (2FA)?
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a method for helping to keep online accounts more secure by enforcing the use of two of these types of “factors”:
- Something you know (like your password)
- Something you have (like your mobile phone)
- Something you are (like your fingerprint)
Two-factor or multi-factor authentication is a common and recommended practice for protecting important accounts such as those associated with financial services.
2FA strengthens an account’s security because the second factor acts as an additional “gate.” This extra gate helps your account security by reasonably verifying that you are who you say you are after you submit your correct email address and login password.
Is biometric login like Face ID the same thing as two-factor authentication?
No. Some mobile devices offer biometric login, which uses a physical characteristic belonging only to you (like your fingerprint or your face) to log you in to your phone and into specific apps that you authorize. Biometric login is a convenient and safe way to log in, but it’s still only acting as a single “factor” to access your account and can only protect you if you’re using that same device where you have enabled a biometric login.
Even if you use something like Face ID on your mobile device, it’s still important to set up a second factor as an added layer of protection. The second factor helps protect your account in case someone other than you attempts to access your account, or if you want to access your account from multiple devices.
Why should I enable two-factor authentication for my Glance Capital account?
When you enable 2FA, a verification code will be required to log into your account, in addition to your email and password. Depending on the method you choose, the verification code will be sent to you via text (SMS), voice call, or email. These codes can only be used once and expire after a short time frame.
You can also allow Glance Capital to “remember” devices you use frequently, so that you don’t have to use a verification code to login every single time you visit your account(s). We do not recommend that you “remember” any device that is shared or publicly accessible.
How do I turn on two-factor authentication?
Glance Capital customers who do not already have 2FA enabled will see a screen at login prompting them to set up 2FA when logging in to their Glance Capital account.
Helping to protect our members’ personal and financial information from unauthorized access and malicious activity is a top priority for Glance Capital. 2FA is fast and easy to set up, and helps protect your account, even if your password is compromised.