L137 · Staying safe · 2 min
Two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication asks for a second proof after your password, which stops most account takeovers, as long as you never share that second code.
01 · The idea
With two-factor turned on, logging in needs your password plus something else: a code from an app, a text message, a tap on your phone, or a security key.
Authenticator apps and security keys are safer than text codes, because criminals can sometimes take over a phone number. Still, any second factor is far better than none.
The weak point is people. Scammers call pretending to be support and ask you to read out the code you just received. That code is the key to your account.
Turn it on for email, social media and anything with money. Save the backup codes somewhere safe and offline in case you lose your phone.
02 · Think of it like this
It is like a house with a key and a guard dog. A thief might copy your key, but the dog still knows who you are.
03 · Do it now
04 · Quick check
Words in this lesson
See also
L148Staying safe · 3 min
Reporting scams in Vietnam
Reporting a scam quickly protects you and others, and in Vietnam you can call the police on 113, your bank's official hotline, and report fake sites and spam to the authorities.
L149Staying safe · 2 min
How scammers use AI to research you
Scammers can use AI to scan your public posts and build a believable story about you in minutes, so what you share publicly becomes their script.
L120Staying safe · 2 min
Fake apps that read your messages
A fake app installed from a link can read your texts and codes and empty your bank account, so install apps only from the official store.
L310Staying safe · 3 min
Keep family photos safe
Family photos are easy to lose and easy to overshare, and a simple backup plan plus a few settings protect them on both sides.