Stay Secure: Understanding Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and How to Get Started
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November 5, 2024
Nov 6, 2024 byWith the rise of cyber threats, securing your online accounts is more important than ever.
Protecting your online accounts is a top priority in today's digital landscape. Whether you're managing your parish website, your social media profiles, or your online giving platform, ensuring the security of your information is crucial. One of the most effective ways to do this is through Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).What is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)?
Two-factor authentication is a security process that requires two forms of identification before you can access your account. Think of it as a two-step lock: the first key is your password, and the second key is a one-time code you’ll retrieve via a text message or an authenticator app only you can access. This extra layer of protection makes it much more difficult for unauthorized users to access your account, even if they manage to get hold of your password.
How does 2FA work?
There are a couple of common ways to receive your 2FA code:
Authenticator Apps: These apps generate time-sensitive codes that you use to complete the login process. After entering your password, you simply open the app, find the code, and enter it to gain access. The code changes every 30 seconds, making it highly secure.
Text Messages: If you prefer, you can choose to receive your 2FA code via text message. Once you’ve entered your password, a one-time code is sent directly to your mobile phone. Just type in the code when prompted, and you’re in! This option provides an added layer of convenience, especially if you don’t have immediate access to an authenticator app.
Email Message: For added convenience, you can choose to receive your 2FA code directly in your inbox. After entering your password, just check your email for a one-time code, and type it in when prompted. This option is especially handy if you’re working on a desktop or prefer to keep everything in one place.
Note: eCatholic’s new login process currently doesn’t support the 2FA via email option; only text message or authenticator app.
Why 2FA Matters
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a simple yet powerful way to protect your online presence. Whether you use an authenticator app or receive codes via text message, 2FA adds an essential layer of security to your accounts. In a time when cyber threats are more sophisticated than ever, this additional security measure can make all the difference.
At eCatholic, we’re committed to helping you keep your accounts secure. We’re excited to begin rolling out Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for eCatholic Websites and Connect products this fall, and this is just the beginning. Soon, 2FA will become the standard way for every customer to access all eCatholic products, ensuring that your accounts are always protected with the highest level of security.
2FA Means No More Shared Logins
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) prevents more than one person from logging into a single user account. Sure, we get that sharing passwords is easy, but you should know that is a huge threat to your website security.
Additionally, once 2FA is common across all eCatholic products, sharing passwords won't be as simple anymore. By moving to this new login method, we're helping you keep your information safe while making account management more transparent and easier than ever.
And the best part, we never charge for user accounts, so you can make as many as you need! This also improves user security and allows 2FA to work properly. For more on user accounts, check out this helpful blog article!Getting Started with Authenticator Apps
If you choose to go the app route, setting it up is easy. You can download one of these popular authenticator apps:
Logging in using 2FA is coming soon for eCatholic Websites and currently available for eCatholic Connect. Learn more about how to use 2FA for your login procedure here.
For detailed instructions on setting up 2FA for your eCatholic Website or Connect account, check out our help center or contact our support team at [email protected].
