Stronger security for your Google Account

With 2-Step Verification, you’ll protect your account with both your password and your phone

Why you need it

It's easier than you think for someone to steal your password

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It's easier than you think for someone to steal your password

Any of these common actions could put you at risk of having your password stolen:

  • Using the same password on more than one site
  • Downloading software from the Internet
  • Clicking on links in email messages

2-Step Verification can help keep bad guys out, even if they have your password.

Imagine losing access to your account and everything in it

When a bad guy steals your password, they could lock you out of your account, and then do some of the following:

  • Go through – or even delete – all of your emails, contacts, photos, etc.
  • Pretend to be you and send unwanted or harmful emails to your contacts
  • Use your account to reset the passwords for your other accounts (banking, shopping, etc.)
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How it works

Signing in to your account will work a little differently

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Signing in to your account will work a little differently

Keep sign-in simple

During sign-in, you can choose not to use 2-Step Verification again on . From then on, that computer will only ask for your password when you sign in.

You'll still be covered, because when you or anyone else tries to sign in to your account from , 2-Step Verification will be required.

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How it protects you

An extra layer of security

Your password 2-Step Verification

An extra layer of security

Most people only have one layer – their password – to protect their account. With 2-Step Verification, if a bad guy hacks through your password layer, he'll still need your phone or Security Key to get into your account.

Sign in will require something you know and something you have

With 2-Step Verification, you'll protect your account with something you know (your password) and something you have (your phone or Security Key).

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Verification codes made just for you

Codes are uniquely crafted for your account when you need them. If you choose to use verification codes, they will be sent to your phone via text, voice call, or our mobile app. Each code can only be used once.

See Features to learn about backup options for times when your phone is not available.