Considering the rise in the cyber crimes these days, every email service provider is trying to provide additional security measures to their customers to keep their data and information safe against intrusion. If you are using iCloud Mail and looking to make it more secure, you can make use of the two-factor authentication or two-step verification feature offered by Apple in iCloud Mail.
What is two-factor authentication?
Two-factor authentication features works as an added layer of security. Activating this feature in your iCloud Mail sends you a six-digit verification code on your trusted devices each time you sign in to a new device for the first time. For example, if you have an iPhone and you are logging into your account for the first time on your newly bought Mac, you will be asked to enter the password and then the verification code which will automatically display on your iPhone. And, this is how the security of your iCloud Mail improves.
What is a Trusted Device?
A trusted device could be your iPhone, iPod touch (iOS 9 and above), or Mac (OS X EI Capitan and above) which you have already logged in via two-factor authentication. Apple considers such device as the Trusted device and uses it to verify your identity by showing a verification code on it when you log in on a new device or browser.
Now, to know how to activate two-factor authentication on your iCloud Mail, follow the step-by-step instructions provided below.
Steps to Enable Two-Factor Authentication to Secure iCloud Mail
NOTE: At present, Two-factor-authentication is only available to iCloud users with at least one device having iOS 9 or OS X EI Capitan or above. If you have one such device, follow the below-mentioned steps.
When using iOS 10.3 or Above
1.) On your iOS device, go to Settings option and tap on “Your name” and then on “Password & Security” option.
2.) Now, tap “Turn On Two-Factor Authentication” option and tap “Continue”.
When using iOS 10.2 or Earlier
1.) On your iOS device, go to Settings > iCloud option.
2.) Now, tap on your Apple ID and then on the Password & Security option.
3.) Next, tap “Turn On Two-Factor Authentication” option and tap “Continue”.
NOTE: You might be prompted to answer your Apple ID security question.
Phone Number Verification
After following the above steps, you will need to enter and verify your trusted phone number.
- Enter your phone number where you wish to receive the verification codes when you log into your iCloud Mail.
- To receive codes, you can choose either get it via text message or automated phone call.
- Tapping on the “Next” option will send a verification code to the phone number you entered.
- Next, you will need to enter the verification code you receive on your phone number to verify it and activate Two-Factor Authentication feature.
For Mac with OS X EI Capitan or Above
1.) On your Mac, go to Apple Menu > System Preferences > iCloud > Account Details.
2.) Under Account Details, click on the Security option.
3.) Under Security section, click “Turn On Two-Factor Authentication”.
NOTE: Some Apple IDs created in iOS 10.3 or macOS 10.12.4 and higher comes secured with two-factor authentication by default. In such case, you will see the feature already activated.
So, this is how you can secure your iCloud Mail with two-factor authentication feature.
