Apple’s hardware devices, App Store and iTunes purchases and cloud services are tied to a single user account known as the Apple ID. Having access to your Apple ID is also useful if you need to find a lost Apple device such as an iPhone or iPad providing that the device is linked to your account. With this ID so connected, it can potentially be disastrous if your account gets compromised. A good preventative measure would be to use an alphanumeric password with both lowercase and uppercase letters. But given the recent iCloud hacks, it is recommended to use the extra two-step authentication feature for even tighter security.
Switching On Apple ID Two-Step Authentication
- Head to the Apple ID page, click the “Manage your Apple ID” button and log into your account. You might be asked to change your password before proceeding.
- Click “Password and Security” and answer the given security questions.
- Click “Get started…” under Two-Step Verification and read the description to learn how it works. Click the “Continue” buttons to proceed to the other sections and finally click “Get Started”.
- Add your mobile number. Once entered, you should receive a 4-digit code via text message. Enter this 4-digit number in the popup that appears and click “Verify”. You may add additional phone numbers or click “Continue” to proceed.
- The next step is very important as it involves taking note of a special recovery key that is designed as a backdoor if you forgot your password and no longer have access to your mobile devices linked to two-step authentication. For maximum security, write this key down on a piece of paper or print it and store it in a safe area. Once you have a hard copy, you will be asked to enter this key just to make sure you have written it correctly.
- Finally, read the conditions laid out by Apple and enable two-step verification. Basically, it will be impossible to manage your Apple ID if you lose both your linked mobile device(s) and recovery key. Consider it a price to pay for that extra security.
Securing Your Backdoor
If you have enabled two-step authentication in the past, you can always make a new recovery key if you lost the first one by going back to the Apple ID page and head to the “Password and Security” section after logging into your account.
For more information, check out Apple’s official FAQ that covers two-step verification.