How to use Safari’s built-in 2FA code generator

adminOctober 25, 2023

0 135 3 minutes read

In this digital age, safeguarding your online accounts is paramount. With the increasing number of cyber threats and data breaches, it’s crucial to take your online security seriously. One key aspect of online security is password management, and we want to discuss a secure method that is often overlooked: Safari’s built-in 2-factor Authentication (2FA). Before diving into this, we’d like to make a quick public service announcement: A password manager is a much more secure method of saving and using passwords than relying solely on a web browser.

The Case for a Password Manager

Password managers are an excellent way to enhance your online security. They generate complex, unique passwords for each of your accounts and store them securely. This reduces the risk of your accounts getting compromised due to weak or reused passwords. It also eliminates the need to remember dozens of passwords.

Browser-Saved Passwords: A Convenient but Risky Option

We understand that many people prefer the convenience of having their web browser save their passwords. This can make logging in faster and easier. However, relying on your browser’s built-in password management system has its risks. If your device gets compromised, your saved passwords could be exposed. That’s why using a dedicated password manager is often recommended.

A Compromise: 2-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Even if you opt to have your browser save your passwords, we strongly recommend using 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) whenever possible. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to provide a secondary code or confirmation in addition to your password. It’s an excellent safeguard against unauthorized access to your accounts, even if your passwords are compromised.

Safari’s Unique Advantage

If Safari is your preferred web browser, you’re in luck. Safari has had 2FA built-in since version 15. This means you can enjoy the benefits of 2FA without relying on a third-party app to generate those codes. Let’s explore how to use this feature effectively.

How to Use Safari’s 2FA Code Generator

Prerequisites

To use Safari’s built-in 2FA code generator, you need an updated version of the Safari web browser. This guide will demonstrate the process on MacOS Sonoma with Safari version 17. You also need a website that supports 2FA.

1. Open Safari Settings

Launch Safari.
Click on the Safari entry in the menu bar.
From the pop-up menu, select “Settings.”

2. Open the Passwords Tab and Authenticate

Click on the “Passwords” tab.
You’ll need to enter your user password or use Touch ID to unlock the vault.

3. Open the Password Entry in Question

Locate the entry for which you want to add 2FA.
Double-click or double-tap the entry to open it.
A pop-up window will appear. Find and click “Set Up” to the right of the verification code.

4. Type the Verification Code

In the next pop-up, you can either type the verification code from your current 2FA enrollment or add the one presented from a new enrollment.
If you’re unable to view that code, you might need to unenroll from 2FA on the site and then re-enroll.
Once you have the code, type it into the field or scan the QR code provided by the service for the 2FA setup.

5. Using the Code

To use the new 2FA code:

Log into the account in question.
When prompted for the 2FA code, click on the text area where you’d normally type the code.
Select the entry in Safari.
Authenticate, for example, using Touch ID, to complete the process.

Instead of managing yet another app for 2FA, Safari’s built-in option is faster, more convenient, and still provides that essential extra layer of security.

Conclusion

Safeguarding your online accounts is vital in today’s digital landscape. While password managers are a secure choice for managing your credentials, if you opt to use your web browser’s built-in password manager, we strongly recommend implementing 2-factor Authentication (2FA) for added security. Safari’s built-in 2FA is a convenient and trustworthy option that enhances your online security without the need for third-party apps.

FAQs

1. Is Safari’s built-in 2FA as secure as dedicated 2FA apps?

Yes, Safari’s built-in 2FA is a secure option. It provides an additional layer of security for your accounts and is convenient to use.

2. Can I use Safari’s 2FA on mobile devices?

Yes, Safari’s 2FA works on both macOS and iOS devices, making it a versatile choice for enhancing your online security.

3. Do I still need a password manager with Safari’s built-in 2FA?

Using both a password manager and 2FA is the most secure approach. A password manager ensures strong, unique passwords, while 2FA provides an extra layer of protection.

4. What should I do if I forget my Safari 2FA code?

If you forget your Safari 2FA code, you may need to reset it by following the site’s specific instructions for 2FA recovery.

5. Can I use Safari’s 2FA on websites that don’t support it natively?

No, Safari’s built-in 2FA requires websites to support the feature. If a website does not offer 2FA, you won’t be able to use this function with that site.

Enhance your online security with Safari’s built-in 2-factor authentication. It’s a convenient and secure way to protect your accounts. Stay safe online!