How to enable 2-Step Verification

With 2-Step Verification, also called two-factor authentication, you can add an extra layer of security to your account in case your password is stolen or compromised. After you set up 2-Step Verification, you can sign in to your account with:

• Your password
• Your phone
• Your tablet
• An authenticator app on your phone or computer

Allow 2-Step Verification

1. Open your Google Account by going to https://myaccount.google.com
2. In the navigation panel, select Security.
3. Under “Signing in to Google,” select 2-Step Verification  Get started.
4. Follow the on-screen steps.

Verify it’s you with a second step

After you turn on 2-Step Verification, you must complete a second step to verify it is you when you sign in. To help protect your account, Google will ask that you complete a specific second step. Here are instructions for setting this up from your Computer, Android device, or iPhone & iPad

Use Google prompts

We recommend you sign in with Google prompts. It's easier to tap a prompt than enter a verification code. Prompts can also help protect against SIM swaps and other phone number-based hacks.

Google prompts are push notifications you’ll receive on:

• Android phones or tablets that are signed in to your MPS Google Account.
• iPhones with the Smart Lock app , the Gmail app , the Google Photos app, the YouTube app, or the Google app signed in to your MPS Google Account.

The app notifies you through your device that a device at a location is trying to access your account. Based on the device and location info in the notification, you can:

• Allow the sign in if you requested it and the device and location match yours by tapping Yes
• Block the sign-in if you didn’t request it by tapping No

Google may ask you for your PIN or other confirmation for added security.

Use other verification methods

You can set up other verification methods in case you:

• Want increased protection against phishing
• Can’t use Google prompts
• Lose your phone or tablet

Use security keys to increase protection

A physical security key is a small device that you can buy to help verify it’s you when you sign in. When your identity needs to be verified, one can simply connect the key to your phone, tablet, or computer and press the button when prompted. You can order physical security keys through the help desk.

To sign in to new devices, you may also use the security key built into a compatible phone.

Tip: Security keys help protect your Google Account from phishing attacks when a hacker tries to trick you into giving them your password or other personal information. 

Use Google Authenticator or other verification (one-time passcode {OTP}) apps

Important: Never give your verification codes to anyone.
When you don't have an Internet connection or mobile service, you can set up Google Authenticator or another app that creates one-time verification codes. These apps include Google Authenticator, Twilio Authy, LastPass Authenticator, and Microsoft Authenticator.

To verify it's you, the application will ask you to enter a verification code from the app after using your username and password in the service you're trying to access.

Use backup codes

Important: Never give out your backup codes to anyone.
To keep in a safe place, you can print or download a set of 8-digit backup codes, and store them in a secure location like a fireproof safe. If you lose your phone, backup codes are helpful.