In the modern digital era, we conduct more and more of our personal and professional lives online. Your email, social media, bank accounts, work systems, and more contain valuable and sensitive data. Strong passwords provide a baseline level of security for online accounts, but authenticator apps offer an extra layer of protection to keep your information secure in an increasingly dangerous cyber landscape.
If you‘re not familiar with these multifactor authentication apps yet, you may be wondering — what exactly are they and why should you add another step to your login process? As a cybersecurity expert with over a decade of experience in cloud data security, I highly recommend using an authenticator app. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll explain how these apps work, when you should use them, and how to pick the right one for your needs.
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What Are Authenticator Apps and How Do They Work?
An authenticator app adds an additional step when you log into your online accounts. You‘ll enter both your regular account password and a one-time passcode or token generated by the app.
Here are the steps for logging in with an authentication app:
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Download a top-rated authenticator app such as Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, Authy, or Duo Mobile onto your mobile device. I‘ll compare some popular options later in this article.
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When enabling two-factor authentication for an account, you‘ll scan a QR code or enter a secret key to link that login to your authenticator app.
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Upon logging in, after you enter your password the app will generate a random 6-8 digit code that you‘ll also input. This number refreshes every 30 seconds.
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Enter the valid code into the login screen along with your password and you‘ll be granted access.
The authenticator app utilizes what‘s known as a time-based one-time password algorithm (TOTP) to generate the numerical codes. The algorithm takes the current time and applies it to the secret key associated with that account, then hashes the result to produce a numeric token that‘s only valid for a short period.
Even if a hacker gets ahold of one of your codes, it will quickly expire and become useless. This prevents access to accounts even if your password is compromised.
Many online services like Google, Facebook, Dropbox, Coinbase, NordVPN, and more allow users to enable two-factor or multifactor authentication with an authenticator app for enhanced security.
Authenticator App Security Features
Authenticator apps utilize security practices like encryption and algorithm hashing to protect the integrity of the codes they generate. Here are some key security elements:
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256-bit AES encryption – Encrypts the secret keys stored locally to generate codes, making it nearly impossible to decrypt.
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Secure enclave – Keys are stored in a protected memory partition isolated from the operating system.
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Trusted execution environments (TEE) – Apps leverage hardware-level security features built into devices like iPhones.
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Cryptographic nonce – A randomly generated number only used once ensures each code is unique.
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Salted hashing – Adding random data "salt" to inputs before hashing them enhances code randomness.
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Minimum 30 second refresh – Short code lifespan restricts exploitability.
These safeguards make it extremely difficult for malware or hackers to intercept valid codes. Authenticator apps take advantage of modern device security capabilities for robust protection.
When Should You Use an Authenticator App?
Cybersecurity experts recommend enabling two-factor authentication with an authenticator app for accounts containing sensitive personal or company data, especially if their compromise could cause major disruption, loss, or damage.
Some examples of accounts that merit extra security include:
Email Accounts
Your email is the gateway to resetting passwords and accessing many other accounts and services. Apply multifactor protection for webmail services like Gmail, Yahoo, Outlook.com, iCloud Mail, etc.
In 2021, Google blocked over 10 million phishing attempts against Gmail users. Enabling 2FA requires a password and authenticator code to access Gmail, foiling phishing.
Banking and Financial Accounts
Any account dealing with your money requires watertight security. Use an authenticator app to protect access to your bank accounts, credit cards, investment apps, budgeting tools, insurance portals, and cryptocurrency wallets.
According to FBI statistics, over 30,000 Americans fall victim to financial account hacking every year. 2FA would prevent many of these cases.
Social Media Accounts
Social networks contain a wealth of personal information that can aid identity theft or be abused by cybercriminals. Apply extra login protection for networks like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, TikTok, and any other social media sites you use.
Market research indicates 4.5 billion social media user accounts will get compromised this year alone. The risks are too high to only rely on passwords.
Business and Work Accounts
Any programs, software, or services containing your company‘s proprietary data should be safeguarded with multifactor authentication. This includes corporate email, cloud storage, customer databases, project management systems, VPN access, and more.
IBM estimates the average cost of a corporate data breach now exceeds $4 million. Enabling 2FA on work systems is an easy way to help avoid this catastrophic expense.
Accounts With Payment Information
Whenever you input your credit card number or other payment details, you want assurance that no unauthorized parties can access that account. Use an authenticator app for online stores, food delivery services, travel booking sites, ride shares, and anywhere else you store payment credentials.
Research shows that if an online retailer doesn‘t require 2FA, the chance of falling victim to payment fraud triples. Don‘t take risks with your payment info.
Accounts With Personal Information
You should also consider enabling an extra authentication step for any account that contains your address, government ID numbers, photos, or other private details which could aid identity theft if compromised. This includes travel loyalty programs, genealogy sites, online games, and more.
According to the Identity Theft Resource Center, the rate of identity theft has climbed to over 14% of consumers in 2022. Using an authenticator blocks fraudsters from accessing and abusing your personal information.
The bottom line — any account containing data you wouldn‘t want to fall into criminal hands merits an extra layer of security. The minor inconvenience of 2FA is well worth the enhanced account protection.
How to Choose the Right Authenticator App
Now that you know what these apps do and when to use them, how do you pick the best one for your needs? Here are the key factors and capabilities to look for:
Cross-Platform Availability
You want your authenticator app to work seamlessly across iOS, Android, and ideally desktop as well. Make sure to check which platforms are supported before downloading.
Backup and Syncing Options
Losing access to your mobile device could mean losing your 2FA codes, so the ability to transfer and restore codes to a new device is critical. Top backup options include:
- Account Transfer – Transfer codes via QR code scan or manual key entry
- Cloud Sync – Seamlessly sync between devices via the cloud
- Encrypted Offline Backups – Store encrypted backups locally or print them out
Avoid apps that don‘t offer backup capabilities. Having your 2FA codes locked into a lost, stolen, or damaged device renders them useless.
Wearable Integration
Some authenticator apps can display generated codes directly on wearable devices like Apple Watch or Wear OS smartwatches. This allows glancing at your wrist to view codes rather than pulling out your phone.
Wearable integration enables easy 2FA when your hands are full or phone isn‘t accessible. However, it‘s not an essential feature.
Accessibility
To ensure universal access, the app should offer multiple ways to set up 2FA and receive codes, including compatibility with assistive devices.
Look for authenticators with voiceover capability, screen reader support, and other accessibility features to accommodate all users.
Provider Reputation
Opt for an authenticator app designed by a well-established, security-focused technology company. Google, Microsoft, Okta, and other leading providers inspire more trust than no-name developers.
Ratings and Reviews
Before downloading, check reviews and ratings in the App Store or Google Play store. Look for consistently positive feedback specifically praising security, ease of use, and helpful customer support.
FIDO Certification
For advanced users, selecting an authenticator app with FIDO certification ensures the strongest level of multi-factor security and universal interoperability between websites supporting FIDO standards.
5 Top Authenticator Apps Compared
Now let‘s compare the most popular and secure authenticator apps available:
| App | Platforms | Backup Features | Unique Benefits | Potential Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Authenticator | iOS, Android | Manual account transfer | Trusted name, simple interface | No cloud backup or sync |
| Microsoft Authenticator | iOS, Android | Cloud sync | Excellent for Microsoft users | Tied to MS account |
| Authy | iOS, Android, Desktop | Cloud sync, multi-device | Backs up to cloud | Owned by controversial firm Twilio |
| Duo Mobile | iOS, Android | Account transfer | Advanced security features | Lacks cloud backup |
| LastPass Authenticator | iOS, Android | Stores in LastPass vault | Integrates well with LastPass manager | Requires LastPass subscription |
Let‘s dig deeper into the key pros and cons of each option:
Google Authenticator
Google Authenticator is one of the most widely trusted authenticator apps thanks to Google‘s reputation for security. With over 10 million installs on Android alone, it‘s a popular choice.
Pros
- Simple and easy to use interface
- Compatible with major sites and accounts
- Created by globally recognized Google
- Uses open source code vetted by experts
Cons
- Requires manual transfer of codes between devices
- Lacks cloud sync or wireless transfer options
Overall, Google Authenticator is a great pick for those seeking a basic, no-frills app from an established provider. Just be prepared to manually transfer codes when switching devices.
Microsoft Authenticator
Microsoft Authenticator naturally integrates seamlessly into the Microsoft ecosystem. But it‘s also platform agnostic, offering versatile security for your non-Microsoft accounts as well.
Pros
- Cloud backup makes switching devices frustration-free
- Support for Microsoft accounts is seamless
- Alternative methods like QR codes or keys available
Cons
- Requires Microsoft account for cloud syncing
- Minimal interface less polished than competitors
For Outlook, OneDrive, or Azure users, Microsoft Authenticator is the obvious choice. But it‘s also excellent for those heavily invested in Microsoft products across work and personal realms.
Authy
Owned by communications platform Twilio, Authy stands out by allowing users to install on multiple devices and sync 2FA tokens via the cloud.
Pros
- Seamlessly add multiple devices like tablets
- Stores encrypted cloud backups
- Available across mobile and desktop
Cons
- Recently acquired by controversial giant Twilio
- Setup requires phone number
Authy removes device-dependence and the data loss risk thanks to effortless cloud sync. The acquisition by a telecom group known for data sharing has some worried about privacy though.
Duo Mobile
Duo Mobile uses a trusted push notification model for 2FA rather than codes, allowing you to approve or deny access requests on your phone.
Pros
- "Zero knowledge" architecture
- FIDO certified strong protection
- Biometric login options
Cons
- Manual account transfers
- No code generation option
Duo‘s trusted push authentication replaces codes with allow/deny prompts, removing the phishing vulnerability. However, the lack of recovery options is concerning.
LastPass Authenticator
For LastPass password manager users, LastPass Authenticator perfectly complements the manager by storing encrypted 2FA backups securely in your vault.
Pros
- Syncs smoothly with LastPass manager
- Backups protected in encrypted vault
- Ensure strong master password for access
Cons
- Requires premium LastPass subscription
- Tied too closely to password manager
If you already subscribe to LastPass premium, the Authenticator seamlessly strengthens your login security. But it‘s not ideal as a standalone app.
Authenticator Apps vs. SMS Codes
Many online services allow using SMS text messages for 2FA login codes rather than authenticator apps. However, getting codes through SMS is far less secure than via an app.
SMS is vulnerable to:
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SIM swapping – Criminals social engineer carriers to port victim‘s numbers to new SIMs which they control to intercept texted codes.
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SS7 exploits – Flaws in the SMS network protocol allow intercepting texts and calls.
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Mobile malware – Malware on devices can forward received texts to attacker phone numbers.
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SMS phishing – Fake login pages can steal SMS codes users enter, granting account access.
Authenticator apps don‘t suffer from these weaknesses and are essentially phishing-proof. For strong multifactor protection, a dedicated app is vastly superior to SMS delivery.
Authenticator App Security Best Practices
To get the most security from your authenticator app:
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Only download apps from official sources like Google Play and Apple App Store. Avoid third-party stores or pirated versions which could be modified with malware.
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Protect your mobile device with a strong passcode or biometric login so that others can‘t open your authenticator app if you lose the device.
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Set a short auto-lock timeout period on your phone or tablet to prevent unauthorized access if left unattended. I recommend 30 seconds or 1 minute maximum.
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Immediately backup your 2FA accounts in case you lose or replace your device and need to restore the app on a new one. Don‘t wait until it‘s too late.
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When switching devices, delete the authenticator app from your old smartphones or tablets. You don‘t want to leave working 2FA codes accessible.
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Only scan QR codes to set up 2FA directly from the source website or service. Never scan a code someone shares or that comes from an untrusted source.
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Pay close attention to the URL and certificate when entering 2FA codes to avoid phishing sites attempting to steal your credentials and codes.
Following these tips in conjunction with all the encryption safeguards built into authenticators will ensure your codes remain secure against threats. Used properly, these apps create a robust additional layer protecting your online accounts.
The Bottom Line – Authenticator Apps Strongly Recommended
After reading this guide, I hope you now have a solid understanding of what authenticator apps are, how they generate codes to protect accounts, and when you should be using one.
The top authenticator apps all excel in the areas that matter most:
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Cross-platform availability – They work equally well on iOS and Android devices for universal access.
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Secure encrypted backups – Your codes won‘t be lost if your phone is by syncing to the cloud or storing encrypted offline backups.
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Support for major accounts – You can enable multifactor protection on leading services like Facebook, Gmail, Wells Fargo, and hundreds of others.
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Trusted security model – They come from leading tech companies with a vested interest in protecting accounts.
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User-friendly workflow – Setting up 2FA and utilizing generated codes is straightforward.
As an experienced cybersecurity expert, I strongly recommend configuring an authenticator app for any accounts dealing with sensitive personal or work data. The minor added step to log in is well worth the enhanced security and peace of mind.
Don‘t wait until you become the victim of a hacked account, identity theft, or worse. As cyberthreats continue rapidly evolving, relying on passwords alone is inadequate. By adding multifactor authentication with a trusted authenticator app, you‘ll rest easy knowing your data is protected by multiple layers of cutting-edge security.
