“At first glance, the shutting down of two-factor authentication (2FA) via text message may seem like a major step backwards for data security, but it actually offers the opportunity to take a big step forward when it comes to social media data security. After all, social media has become a hotbed for phishing scams, making online identities increasingly insecure. While two-factor authentication via text message was an important tool to protect users’ accounts and personal data, it is indeed no longer witchcraft for hackers to bypass it today. At the same time, SIM swap fraud is also on the rise and hackers only need to gain access to a phone number to falsely impersonate its owner on social media.

Passwordless authentication technologies make logging in easier and more secure by preventing phishing. If there is no password, social engineering as we know it is a thing of the past. Social media platforms in particular should adopt this approach immediately. There need be no trade-offs between user convenience and comprehensive security and protection of digital identities.

Consumers who want to protect their social media accounts have a number of options to choose from. Twitter itself offers other methods of two-factor authentication, for example push authentication via an app. Such an app not only increases security, but also offers a better user experience than authentication via SMS one-time password. Last but not least, it is still important to be familiar with password security and to use strong passwords. Long and strong passwords and changing them regularly provides an extra layer of protection.”