How to secure your Zoom account with two-factor authentication

In this article, we will learn how to set up additional protection for your account in zoom video conferencing with two-factor authentication (2FA).

Zoom is a popular app for video conferencing and video calls. The program has a free version that allows you to make group video calls lasting up to 40 minutes and paid subscriptions that include ample video conferencing capabilities for corporate users.

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Due to the fact that the Zoom program has recently shown increased demand and the number of users has increased dramatically, developers are striving to ensure the best security and privacy of their users, especially in light of the recent refusals of companies and the organization to use Zoom due to security concerns. For example, starting with version 5.0, developers have added improved encryption and new security features.

A two-factor authentication function is provided for additional protection of the Zoom account. When enabled, further proof of identity is required to log in to the account or authorize it in the Zoom program.

When two-factor authentication is activated on Zoom, you will need to enter a six-digit code obtained using the Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator application to log in to your account or in an SMS message.

In this detailed guide, we will focus on both SMS and Authenticators to protect your Zoom account.

Turn on two-factor authentication on Zoom: 2 Methods

Users who use both a free account and a paid subscription can set up two-factor authentication to protect their accounts.

Log in to your account through the Zoom web portal. In the left navigation menu, click the Profile link.

Scroll to the bottom of the page, and next to Two-factor Authentication, click the Turn on link.

Enter the password for your Zoom account and click Next.

Now, you will choose how to get a one-time code for two-factor authentication. Authentication App – use of a specialized application, or SMS – receiving a code in an SMS message.

Two-factor Authentication on Zoom via SMS

If it is more convenient for you to receive SMS with a one-time code, enter your country and phone number and click Send Code. You may also see a check from automatic actions (captcha) in some cases.

Enter the code you received in the SMS message and click Verify.

After that, two-factor authentication in Zoom will be activated, and spare one-time codes will be generated that can be used if it is impossible to receive SMS. Use the Download or Print buttons to save the text file with the codes on your computer, or print them accordingly. Then, click Finish.

Two-factor Authentication on Zoom Using a Mobile Device

To use two-factor authentication in Zoom using a mobile device, you need to install one of the following mobile applications:

• Google Authenticator (Android | iOS)
• Microsoft Authenticator (Android | iOS)

On the Two-Factor Authentication Setup web page, click Set Up to the right of the Authentication App. Open the mobile authentication app of your choice and scan the QR code that appears.

In the next step, enter the code you received in the authentication application and click Verify.

If everything is done correctly, then two-factor authentication will be activated, and spare one-time codes will be displayed on the screen, which can be used if there is no mobile device with an authentication application at hand. Use the Download or Print buttons to save the text file with the codes to your computer or print them. Then, click Finish.

Conclusion:

I hope this guide on Securing your Zoom account with two-factor authentication was easy. We discussed two main methods to increase security on your Zoom account. I would highly recommend using both as we see more and more security threats on the internet.