Back to the blog

Two-step verification: the simplest protection for your account

Most stolen accounts have something in common: they were only protected by a password. Two-step verification adds a second barrier that an attacker can almost never get past, and it takes a couple of minutes to turn on.

What it is

Two-step verification (2FA) asks for two things to log in: something you know, your password, and something you have, usually your phone. Even if someone gets your password, they can't get in without your phone.

Which method to choose

  • Authenticator app. Apps like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator or Aegis generate a new code every 30 seconds. It is the recommended option for most people.
  • Security key. A small USB or NFC device. It is the most secure method, because it can't be fooled by a fake website.
  • SMS. Better than nothing, but it is the weakest method: messages can be intercepted or redirected with a duplicate of your SIM card.

How to turn it on in Discord

  1. Open your user settings and go to My Account.
  2. In the password and authentication section, choose to enable authentication.
  3. Scan the QR code with your authenticator app and enter the code it shows you.
  4. Keep the backup codes somewhere safe. You'll need them if you lose your phone.

If you run a server

Discord lets you require two-step verification for all moderators before they can ban, kick or delete messages. Turn it on in your server's safety settings: if a moderator's account is stolen, the attacker won't be able to use their permissions without the second step.

Remember: no one from the Discord or FireFighter team will ever ask for your verification codes. If someone does, it's a scam.
FireFighter Bot Security and administration bot for Discord. Invite it to your server for free.