With big-name brand hacks taking place across the socialsphere, Twitter’s announcement introducing its new two-factor login verification system was met with a sigh of relief. Although it promises to make accounts across the network more secure, some brand marketers are trying to figure out how it will fit in with their overall marketing workflow. Before you tick the box to enable login verification, here are a few things you should know.
Why should I implement two-factor verification?
Simply put, the two-step verification is an added precaution to protect your account. Because it requires users to sign in using login credentials and a SMS code, it makes it more difficult for hackers to gain access through tactics like phishing. The fact that the SMS code changes with every login session also adds an extra layer of security, should your phone or the code fall into the wrong hands.
How will this affect my daily Twitter workflow?
With every login session you’ll be required to enter a verification code that will be sent via SMS to the phone registered to the account. It will take you a few extra seconds to complete the login process, but it won’t interfere with your daily workflow otherwise.
How will this affect third party applications that I have connected to Twitter?
According to a blog post from Twitter Product Security Team member Jim O’Leary, this new step will not disrupt any connections you’ve made between your Twitter account and third-party applications.
Will this cause any problems for my team?
If your team is used to managing the brand’s Twitter account via Twitter.com, it will make it more difficult. Since every login session requires users to enter a SMS code sent to one particular phone, if they don’t have access to the phone, they won’t be able to access the account. If, however, they have access via a third-party community management app, like HootSuite or Sprout Social, they won’t encounter any issues. To ensure that your team has access to your brand’s accounts at all times, consider setting up an account and granting them access through a third-party app. Using third-party apps are a great way to protect your Twitter account, too, since team members create their own login information and never have direct access to the account’s.
How do I implement it?
Log in to your brand’s Twitter account and go to your Account Settings. Select “Require a verification code when I sign in.” Then follow the prompts asking you to add a phone and you’re all set.
Check out our guide to learn about some additional ways to protect your brand’s social accounts from hackers.
Photo courtesy of SimplyZesty.
