I understand that now Apple wants to expand the two-factor authentication so that it includes FaceTime and iMessage in addition to the previous iTunes and iCloud. How does the authentication work? What does the update mean and how will it protect users?Â
Two-factor authentication is created by Apple as an additional security feature to prevent unauthorized access of your apple account even if your password is leaked.
Once you will set up Apple two step verification you will register one or more trusted device associated to your apple account. Adding trusted device means you need to provide a phone number which can receive SMS. When you will try to login to apple account this number will receive a SMS which will contains a 4-digit verification code. Now every time you will login in from a new device to manage your apple account or sign in iCloud or anything which requires sign in to the apple account you need your password and a 4-digit verification password both. If you enter both the password and verification key correct then only you will be able to gain access your account. If you forget your password or loss your trusted device you can regain access to you apple account using recovery pin. You will get a 14-character recovery PIN at the time of set up to keep it in a safe place.
