Google automatically enabled two-step verification for more than 150 million users, after announcing it there last year.
The initiative also involves asking two million YouTube users to enable this security.
Google notes in its press release that this action has “reduced by 50% the number of accounts hijacked by password theft”.
Protect users’ personal data
“This decrease speaks volumes about the effectiveness of a second form of verification in protecting your personal data. And while we’re proud of these initial results, and pleased with the response we’ve received from our users and the community, we’re excited about other work in progress we’re doing behind the scenes,” says Guemmy Kim, Director of Google Chrome security.
“Today alone, billions of people around the world will use our products to make small and big things easier – whether it’s paying for a coffee with Google Play or teaching an online course in front of students – and it is our responsibility to keep your personal information safe,” she continues.
“We know that Gmail is often the link to your non-Google accounts, for banking, social media, shopping, etc. That’s why Gmail security is a fundamental part of our work to keep you safe online. By making all of our products secure by default, we keep more users safe than anyone else in the world – blocking malware, phishing attempts, spam messages and potential cyberattacks. »
Secure solutions by default
Google also provides other “secure by default” solutions, and is helping to lead the way by introducing “advanced authentication methods like security keys that enable a simpler and more secure sign-in experience for users,” argues a spokesperson for the web giant.
“These solutions include the Advanced Protection Program, which protects high-risk users like journalists, celebrities and other public figures, 37% of whom have had their account hacked in the past year, according to a recent survey. Google/YouGov,” the rep said.
Last year, Google announced that it was offering additional protection to “more than 10,000 high-risk users” through a partnership with organizations that would provide them with free security keys.
Ultimately, according to Guemmy Kim, Google seeks to reduce users’ reliance on passwords, as these are often implicated in data breaches and phishing attempts.
Access personalized recommendations
Guemmy Kim also notes that Google has created a “security checkup” tool that gives personalized recommendations on what steps to take to strengthen the security of a Google account, and prepare it for recovery.
Google also urges other users to enable two-step verification, if they haven’t already, and to use the password manager it offers.
As a reminder, Google announced in October 2021 that it plans to automatically register 150 million people for two-step verification by the end of the year.
Source: ZDNet.com