How to enable Facebook 2-step verification (2FA) using Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator

Recently, we saw a report that Facebook users can be searched using phone numbers associated with 2-step verification. It's a method that provides users with an additional layer of security in order to safeguard their online presence on social media, email and internet banking services.

For example, when you enter a password, Facebook will ask you to enter a one-time password (OTP), hence maximising your account's security.

But now that it seems impossible to prevent others from searching your Facebook profile using mobile number associated with 2FA, leading to a whole new privacy-related problem, we show you how you can use third-party authentication apps instead to opt for Facebooks 2-step verification. In this article, we have demonstrated app-based 2FA using three major apps like Google Authenticator, Authy and Microsoft Authenticator.

How to set up 2-step verification authentication using third-party apps

First things first, you'll have to get started with app-based 2-step verification authentication. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Go to www.facebook.com > Settings by clicking the option at the top right corner > 'Security and Login.' 

Step 2: Two-factor authentication > Use two-factor authentication > Edit.

Step 3: Assuming that you have no 2-step verification method enabled, click the option 'Get started.'

Step 4: Choose a security method > Select the option 'Authentication app.'

Facebook 2-step verification authentication using Google Authenticator, Authy and Microsoft

Anyone can search for you on Facebook using your phone number associated with two-factor authentication

Google Authenticator handles 2-step verification and you turn it on you'll require your password and code it'll generate for you.

Step 1: Download and install the latest version of the Google Authenticator app on your smartphone.

Step 2: Open Google Authenticator app > Add an account. You can start your Facebook account to the Google Authenticator app by entering a provided key or scanning a barcode.

Step 3: For this demonstration, we will scan a bar code since it's an easier method. Once you scan the bar code, your account will be added.

Step 4: Enter the app-generated six-digit code on Facebook and you are done!

Similarly, you can use apps like Authy and Microsoft Authenticator to enable 2-step verification on Facebook. Do remember that procedure to add your Facebook account to these apps remain more or less the same. All you need to do is scan the QR code and enter the app-generated OTP on Facebook.