How to Set Up App-Based 2FA on Twitter (Step-by-Step)

The Twitter Blue subscription service is the only one that currently supports SMS-based two-factor authentication. 

When you add two-factor authentication to your Twitter account, you will not just have to enter a password, but you will be required to enter a code or security key. By taking this extra step, you ensure you can only access your account.

The change is expected to take effect on March 20th, 2023. If they stop using SMS 2FA, non-paying users must use another two-factor authentication method. You can only use 2FA for free using an authenticator app or a hardware key. 

Hence, this article will show you how to integrate Twitter’s two-factor authentication (2FA) with a third-party app.

About Twitter 2FA

Two-factor authentication (2FA) ensures that only your account’s rightful owners can access it.

A Twitter 2FA requires you to enter two pieces of information to log in:

• Your password 
• Code sent to your mobile device

By doing so, malicious actors will be less likely to gain access to your account.

Moreover, Twitter has removed text-based two-factor authentication (2FA) from its platform for non-Twitter blue users to improve platform security and protect users.

Also read: How to Differentiate between Twitter Blue and Verified Users

How is App-Based 2FA Different from Text-Based 2FA?

Although Two-Factor Authentication helps secure your account, there are still some things to consider when generating login codes.

#1. App for Authenticator (more secure)

Generating a Two-Factor Login code with an authenticator app is more secure than sending a text message. A hacker can only gain physical access to your phone and generate code with your knowledge. You should protect your phone’s authenticator app with a strong password.

#2. Messages Sent Via Text (less secure)

Text messages are less secure than apps such as Authenticator when retrieving login codes. Text messages cannot be as secure as physical devices because hackers can more easily access them. If you wish to obtain access to your text messages, you can redirect them or hack your phone provider. Authentication applications generate codes temporarily stored on your phone, which expire after a short period.

Note: It’s still better to have two-factor messaging than not, but it’s less secure than text messages.

Why Choose App-Based 2FA on Twitter?

There are two components that constitute a comprehensive security strategy in the post-password era. These are:

• A two-factor authentication system is a great way to begin moving beyond passwords
• Two-factor authentication is an important security tool, but it can be made even more effective by combining it with other security measures.

How to Set Up App-Based 2FA on Twitter?

Using two-factor authentication with Twitter is easy. You can do it on Mac, Windows, Android, or iOS. Here is a step-by-step guide for Windows users:

• If logged in, click “More” in the left sidebar. You’ll find the “Profile” icon there.
• Click “More,” and a pop-up menu will appear. Choose “Settings and Privacy” from the “Settings and Support” menu. It’s the same for Android and iOS.
• When you click “Security and account access,” more options will appear. Click “Security” in the expanded menu.
• Go to Twitter Security and click “Two-factor authentication.”
• Select “Authentication app” from the 2FA verification options.
• If you choose “Authentication app,” Twitter will ask you for your password. After you enter your password, click “Confirm.”
• Whenever you enable two-factor authentication on Twitter for the first time, it asks for your email address.
• You’ll get a 6-digit code in your email after you enter your email address. This six-digit code starts the two-factor authentication process.

This example uses Google Authenticator. You should always keep backup codes handy since Google Authenticator doesn’t support online backups. You can download codes to your phone or email yourself using Twitter’s ‘Get Backup Code’ feature.

• Next, click “Get Started” for Twitter two-factor authentication.
• After you do that, Twitter gives you a QR code to scan with Google Authenticator or another 2FA app.
• Next, link your Twitter account to Google Authenticator on your phone.

2FA Apps for Android and iOS devices

#1. 2FA Authenticator (2FAS)

In general, 2FAS is an excellent app for two-factor authentication. It works as other apps do. You can scan a QR code or enter your token information manually.

Once that’s done, you may retrieve a token whenever you wish. This app has a simple, clean user interface, and there is no hassle.

The 2FA system performs its function very well. It supports most websites’ TOTP and HOTP protocols requiring two-factor authentication. The plugin is cross-platform, is available on iOS, Android, and web browsers is free, and is ad-free. Generally, this authenticator is a very good choice.

2FAs lets you choose from a free option that is simple, functional, and serviceable.

Download: Android | iOS

#2. Google Authenticator

Google provides a Google authenticator application. This app offers 2FA for your Google account and multiple iOS and Android accounts and does not require an internet connection to generate tokens.

Also, Google Authenticator is a very user-friendly application, and nearly every website that accepts TOTP-based applications will also support it. 

You can’t go wrong with Google Authenticator. Google says it doesn’t share data with third parties and always uses a secure connection. In general, it’s easy to use, reliable and supports everything.

However, it only has some of the features other 2FA apps have. If you want a simple, no-nonsense 2FA app, proceed with Google Authenticator. If you want more functionality, you can get it too.

The Google authenticator is cross-platform compatible and works smoothly.

Download: Android | iOS

#3. Microsoft Authenticator

Microsoft Authenticator provides safe and secure identity authentication from the Apple and Android app stores. 

It is a simple app that generates a unique code for every service that accepts TOTPs without an internet connection. However, there’s more going on beneath the surface.

You can use the app to sign in to Microsoft applications without a password, including OneDrive and Office 365. The app allows users to verify their identity using fingerprint, face, or any other form of identification. Microsoft Authenticator also offers cloud backup via Microsoft’s servers on Android and Apple’s iCloud on iOS.

Microsoft account support means you don’t have to enter codes to approve sign-ins.

Download: Android | iOS

#4. Twilio Authy Authenticator

The Twilio Authy app is one of the most popular two-factor authentication apps. Firstly, it is cross-platform, and it has native applications for Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, and Windows.

Moreover, it’s the only reliable option on all those platforms. It also supports a bunch of protocols and websites and has easy backups.

With Authy, you can protect your accounts and everything, so it’s easy to use. You bring your tokens the same way you would with any other app. Encryption happens in the backups too.

The algorithms used by Authy are the same ones the NSA uses to protect their stuff. That’s quite an endorsement.

Twilio Authy is a powerful utility app that boasts many features and supports cross-platform technologies.

Download: Android | iOS

#5. Apple

The two-factor authentication feature on Apple ID ensures that only you can access your account, even if someone else knows the password. 

If you’re signing in with your Apple ID for the first time, you’ll need your password and the six-digit verification code you see on your trusted devices. Using two-factor authentication is more secure because just knowing your password isn’t enough to access your Apple ID.

Generally, Apple IDs are protected by two-factor authentication. Your device can support two-factor authentication with a passcode and Face ID or Touch ID or a login password on Mac.

Some Apple services and features, such as Apple Pay and Sign in with Apple, require two-factor authentication.

Final Words

Two-factor authentication will increase the security of your accounts. Even if two-factor authentication is enabled, you should change your passwords frequently. Also, you can use a password manager to handle this automatically.

Next, check out advanced search Twitter.