Online security company LastPass has unveiled its new two-factor authentication program designed to provide users with another level of protection for their LastPass account as well as other supported devices.
Known as the LastPass Authenticator, this free to download app makes use of two separate but equally important factors in order to keep an online account from illegal access.
The first factor involves setting up a username and password for the account. These login credentials are then supported by the second factor, which makes use of either 6-digit, time-based passcodes, SMS messaging, or even the account owner's fingerprint, to authenticate any access.
With this two-factor system, the user's online account will be kept safe even if the password is compromised. Any unauthorized person who would try to pry the account open wouldn't be able to do so without providing any of the other necessary credentials.
Owners also have the option to either approve or deny any login attempt to their account through the LastPass' easy-to-use automated push notification system for the LastPass Authenticator.
The two-factor authentication app is compatible with online services that support standard time-based one-time password (TOTP) systems, such as Authy or Google Authenticator.
How To Use The LastPass Authenticator
The LastPass Authenticator can be downloaded from the app store for free and installed on any Android, Windows, or iOS smartphone. At least one free LastPass account is needed, however, to activate the service.
After installing the two-factor authentication app on your device, you need to log in to your LastPass account and launch the "Account Settings" option found in its vault. Access the "Multifactor Options" and edit the one for the LastPass Authenticator.
Follow the onscreen prompts to proceed with the activation and scan the provided barcode using the LastPass Authenticator app.
Set your preferences for your LastPass account then save the changes to complete these steps.
The next time you log in to LastPass or any other supported online services, you'll need to launch the LastPass Authenticator so you can get a 6-digit, 60-second passcode, or a code sent through SMS, which you will then use to access your account.
The automated push notification is only available for accessing LastPass accounts.
