Two-step verification, also known as two-factor authentication, is a security process that involves two authentication steps performed one after the other to verify that someone or something requesting access is who or what they say they are. It adds an extra layer of security to an account by requiring two pieces of evidence to be presented to an authentication mechanism. The two factors can be any combination of the following:

• Knowledge factors: Something the user knows, such as a password, PIN, or answer to a security question.

• Possession factors: Something the user has, such as a mobile phone, smart card, or security token.

• Inherence factors: Something the user is, such as a fingerprint, facial recognition, or iris scan.

Two-step verification can be enabled on various online accounts, including Google, PlayStation, and many others. After setting it up, when a user logs in, they will be prompted to enter their username and password, and then a unique verification code will be sent to their mobile phone or generated by an authenticator app. They will need to enter this code to complete the login process. Two-step verification drastically reduces the chances of having personal information in an account stolen by someone else.