Apple enables two-step authentication for Canadian iDevices

After nearly a year of availability in the US and select European countries, Apple has enabled on two-factor authentication in Canada.

With database infiltration and password hacking becoming a regular occurrence, two-step verification is increasingly important. The idea behind two-factor authentication is simple: in addition to a traditional password, users need a physical object, in this case a smartphone or tablet, to receive a second verification code to enter an account.

In the case of an Apple ID, turning on two-step verification requires a second four-digit code to be entered before making account changes or, when using a device for the first time, making purchases on iTunes and the App Store.

There are two ways to receive a code through Apple: either over SMS with a registered phone number, or through the data network on the device itself. Both of these avenues can be enabled, so ensure that a verification code can be received even if there is no internet service on the device.

Once enabled, all Apple devices, from the iPhone, iPad to the iPod touch, MacBook and Mac Pro, will require a phone or designated Apple device to receive the four-digit authentication code. This is very important for users’ long-term account security, and we highly recommend turning it on. Google also supports two-factor authentication for Android users.

[source]Apple (2)[/source]