Tech

How to activate two-factor authentication for enhanced Google Drive security – Times of India

December 18, 2023
Saqafy Times

In a digital age characterised by the prevalence of data and cloud storage, ensuring the protection of your information is of utmost importance. Google Drive, an adaptable cloud platform, not only facilitates seamless collaboration and accessibility but also places significant emphasis on security. An invaluable asset at your fingertips is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), providing an additional layer of defense that goes beyond the reliance on your password.
Activating two-factor authentication (2FA) for GoogleDrive is a great way to significantly enhance the security of your files.Here’s how to do it:
On your computer:

  1. Go to your Google Account security settings: https://myaccount.google.com/intro/security
  2. Under the “Signing in to Google” section, click on “2-Step Verification”.
  3. If you haven’t already set up 2-Step Verification for your Google account, you’ll be prompted to do so. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose your preferred method for receiving the verification code (phone, authenticator app, etc.).
  4. Once 2-Step Verification is enabled, scroll down to the “Apps and services” section and click on “Google Drive”.
  5. Toggle the switch next to “Require 2-Step Verification for file access” to ON.
  6. Click “Save” to confirm your changes.

On your mobile device:

  1. Open the Google Play Store or App Store and download the Google Authenticator app.
  2. Go to your Google Account security settings on your phone’s web browser: https://myaccount.google.com/intro/security
  3. Under the “Signing in to Google” section, click on “2-Step Verification”.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose your preferred method for receiving the verification code (phone, authenticator app, etc.). If you choose the authenticator app, follow the steps within the app to scan the QR code displayed on your screen.
  5. Once 2-Step Verification is enabled, open the Google Drive app on your phone.
  6. Tap the hamburger menu (three horizontal lines) in the top left corner.
  7. Select “Settings” > “Security” > “Require 2-Step Verification for file access”.
  8. Toggle the switch to ON and confirm your choice.

By enabling 2FA for Google Drive, you add an extra layer of security that makes it much harder for unauthorised individuals to access your files, even if they somehow obtain your password. This is especially important if you store sensitive or confidential information in your Drive.