Apple increases iCloud hacking defences

[mmadhankumar]

Two-step, or two-factor authentication gives an extra layer of security by requiring Apple users to enter an automatically generated code from a second device as well as a password when logging on from a new device.

The move bring iCloud into line with Google’s Gmail services, which has required two-factor authentication for years.

Two-factor authentication – or 2FA – requires a trusted mobile phone number, although they are given a back-up code in case they don’t have their phone or are not within network coverage.

Apple’s 2FA needs you to validate your identity before being able to make iTunes or App Store purchases.

After entering your password, a verification code is sent to a trusted device via SMS or Find My iPhone notifications.

Apple also gives users a recovery key that is required to reset your password.

The extra security measure has long been awaited by Apple watchers.
Twitter is also known to be working on its own 2FA, but no date has been given for its introduction.

Yesterday the BBC became the latest high-profile victim of Twitter hacking when its weather and BBC Arabic accounts were hijacked by supporters of Syria’s Bashar al-Assad.

The hackers, calling themselves the “Syrian Electronic Army”, posted a series of spoof weather reports attacking opponents of the Assad regime, including Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, as well as Britain.




Apple increases iCloud hacking defences - Telegraph