This article was published on March 16, 2016

LastPass’ new app wants to make two-factor authentication mainstream


LastPass, maker of one of the most popular password managers out there, is today announcing a new smartphone app to keep users more secure.

LastPass Authenticator is meant to make it easy for anyone to use two-factor authentication on a multitude of accounts. If you’re not familiar, two-factor requires users to confirm their identity with something beyond a password, adding an extra layer of security.

Usually that’s through a code texted to their phones, but if you use LastPass’ desktop password manager, you can scan a barcode on your screen using your phone’s camera to prove your identity. The company says it plans to further simplify the process soon by simply asking you to tap on a ‘Verify’ button in your smartphone.

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While many services like Facebook and Google provide two-factor logins, LastPass has the advantage of helping you keep multiple accounts in one place. That said, it can also be used without the LastPass Password Manager; the app supports any TOTP (Time-based One-Time Password) compliant service which includes the likes of Facebook, Google and Microsoft accounts, as well as “hundreds” of others.

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The free app is available on the Google Play Store and the iOS App Store starting today.

LastPass Authenticator [Android | iOS]

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