Google Ditches SMS - and Will Now Use QR Codes for Gmail Account Authentication
Google is removing SMS messages as an authentication option, replacing them with on-screen QR codes that users must scan to verify their identity. This move aims to reduce the risk of phishing and fraud associated with SMS authentication. The change also eliminates the vulnerability of SMS code sharing with attackers.
- This shift highlights the evolving nature of online security threats, where traditional methods like SMS authentication are no longer sufficient to protect user accounts.
- As Google transitions to a more secure authentication system, what implications will this have for individuals who rely heavily on SMS-based two-factor authentication in their personal lives?