Microsoft officially announces optional two-step verification for Microsoft Account

Ron

Microsoft Account

Recently, we learned that Microsoft was gearing up for some sweet two-factor authentication security measures for its services, starting with it’s Microsoft Account. This security enhancement was rumored to be worked on alongside an “authenticator” app for Windows Phone.

Microsoft has now officially announced the optional two-factor authentication measure for its Microsoft Account service, set to roll out in the next few days. Microsoft is working hard to increase security for the company’s connected devices and services that are currently used by more than 700 million people around the world.

“Given this critical role for Microsoft account, we remain vigilant in working hard to protect your account, which is why we’re adding an option so you can enable two-step verification to further protect yourself. You should see this option show up in your account in the next few days,” Microsoft stated in an official blog post.

For those that don’t know, two step verification involves being asked for two pieces of information whenever you access your account. This includes a password plus a code sent to your smartphone or an email address on record.

“It’s your choice whether you want to enable this, but for those of you that are looking for ways to add additional security to your account, we’ve worked hard to make set-up really easy,” Microsoft adds. The two factor authentication works on services that utilize a Microsoft Account, including Windows 8, a web browser, and Microsoft’s apps and services on other platforms such as iOS and Android.