Want to secure Twitter account? You will soon be able to use security key as only authentication methodAmerican micro-blogging and social networking service Twitter has announced a new update that will let users use security keys as the only authentication method soon.

The platform will allow multiple security keys per account instead of just one.

At present, users use a security key to sign in to their Twitter accounts, but you need to have another 2FA method -- like an authenticator app or SMS codes -- enabled as a backup.

"Secure your account (and that alt) with multiple security keys. Now you can enroll and log in with more than one physical key on both mobile and web," the company said in a tweet late on Monday.

"And coming soon: the option to add and use security keys as your only authentication method, without any other methods turned on," it added.

While authentication applications like Google Authenticator or Authy are safer than using SMS codes for 2FA, security keys -- physical keys that connect to your computer using USB or Bluetooth -- are the most secure way to protect an account online.

Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security for the Twitter account.

"Instead of only entering a password to log in, you'll also enter a code or use a security key. This additional step helps make sure that you, and only you, can access your account," the company said in an update.

Users don't have to type in a code that could be intercepted by a malicious third party. You connect the key, your browser issues a challenge, then the key cryptographically signs the challenge and verifies your identity.

Another benefit that this update may bring is that users would not need to provide any extra personal information to Twitter such as a telephone number, to be able to log in to their accounts. So users can ensure that their privacy is not hindered.

In December last year, the company said it updated two-factor authentication so users can log in with their physical security keys on Android and iOS, like on desktop.

Source : DNA India