Standard password security is dead. Between credential stuffing attacks and massive database leaks, relying on a single string of characters to protect your digital life is reckless.

Enter Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).

What is 2FA?

2FA adds a second layer of verification.

Something you know: Your password.
Something you have: Your phone, a YubiKey, or a biometric scan.

Even if a hacker buys your password on the dark web, they cannot log in without that second factor.

Types of 2FA (Ranked by Security)

1. Hardware Keys (Best)

Physical devices like YubiKeys. These are immune to phishing because they require physical touch and cryptographic handshakes.

2. Authenticator Apps (Great)

Apps like Google Authenticator or Authy generate codes locally. They are secure and convenient.

3. SMS Codes (Better than nothing, but risky)

SMS 2FA is vulnerable to "SIM Swapping," where a hacker tricks your carrier into transferring your phone number to their SIM card. Avoid SMS if an app option is available.

Sharing 2FA Backup Codes

When you set up 2FA, you get "backup codes" in case you lose your phone. Do not save these in a text file on your desktop.

If you need to share backup codes with a partner or store them digitally:

Put them in a Snapsend text note.
Set it to "Burn on Read."
Print the result or save it to an encrypted USB drive.

Never leave backup codes lying around in plaintext. That defeats the purpose of the lock.