Hacking because of weak or leaky passwords and decreased security weaknesses. Make Google have to act fast. Keeping this in mind, Google has upped the ante when it comes to security. To beef up the security of Google Account, the tech giant has already added the Two-factor authentication that adds an additional layer of security. Additionally, the company has added a new feature as an extension of the 2FA that lets users use their Android smartphone as a Security key for their Google Account. Wondering how? Follow our step-by-step guide.
The feature works just like any other hardware security key that uses Bluetooth, NFC or USB to authenticate a login. Google has taken the same approach of using the Android smartphone as a hardware security key using Bluetooth.
Pre-requisites:
– Android smartphone running Android Nougat 7 or above
– A Windows, MacOS or Chrome OS device with Bluetooth connectivity
– Compatible browser such as Google Chrome
1. Enable Security key feature for Google Account
To do this, users need first need to activate the 2-Step Verification for Google Account. If it is already activated for your account, move to the steps mentioned below and in case you haven’t, read our article on how to enable 2-Step Verification for Google Account.
2. Head to ‘myaccount.google.com/security’ on your PC or mobile device
Under Signing into Google, choose the option 2-Step Verification and
enter the Google account password to verify the login
3. Scroll down to ‘Set up an alternative second step’
Here’s click on the option ‘Add Security Key’ and then select the
Android device registered with that Google Account and click on ‘Add’button followed by ‘Done’ button to save the changes.
(Make sure to turn on the Bluetooth and Location services on your PC
and Android device)
4. How to use Android as a Security key
Turn on Bluetooth on both PC and smartphone, now login into your
Google Account. Check your phone for notification and follow on-screen instructions to authenticate the login.
Source : GADGETSNOW