Twitter fast-tracks 2-step authentication

After having many of its high-profile accounts compromised in recent weeks, Twitter is now working double time on its own two-step authentication solution to protect its users from hackers.

 

But the microblogging service's upcoming two-step solution is still undergoing internal testing before it can be rolled out to users, tech site Wired.com reported.

 

"Twitter posted a job listing for software engineers in February to build such a solution," Wired.com noted.

 

Once in place, such a system promises to "drastically" lower the chances of hackers breaking into Twitter accounts.

 

Recent Twitter account hacks had included the accounts of high-profile users like the Associated Press, the British Broadcasting Co. and 60 Minutes, Wired.com said.

 

Two-step authentication requires users to enter not only a password but also a randomly generated code sent via an SMS message or to a smartphone app.

 

Wired.com said two-step authentication could have prevented a hack on AP's Twitter account where the sender tweeted a fake announcement of an explosion in the White House that injured President Barack Obama.

 

"Given the increasing frequency of attacks, like today’s attack on the AP, or recent ones against the BBC and 60 Minutes, it seems like it would behoove the company to get something out now, even if imperfect, and iterate later. That might mean launching with an SMS only solution, but even that would be better than the current system that relies on passwords alone," it said.

 

But it also noted any solution may have to support multiple devices, and multiple apps.

 

"Two-step isn’t perfect, but it’s a pretty effective stop-gap that’s been becoming more and more popular as passwords become increasingly ineffective against the myriad threats now posed by everything from password reuse to malware," it added. — TJD, GMA News