Introduction
Enabling 2FA, or two factor authentication, on your Epic Games account, most importantly adds an extra layer of security to keep people from accessing your account without your permission. Further, turning on Epic Games two factor authentication makes it possible for you to send and receive gifts in Fortnite, and to compete in Fortnite tournaments.
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Steps to Enable Epic Games 2FA
- Open a web browser and navigate to www.epicgames.com/account/personal. Sign in to your Epic Games account if prompted. You’ll land on the General Settings screen.
- Click “Passwords and Security” in the menu on the left side of the screen. The Password and Security options appear on the right side of the screen.
- Scroll down to the Two Factor Authentication section. You’ll see three options for turning on two factor authentication for your Epic Games account. You can use an authenticator app, such as Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator. You can use SMS authentication where you’ll be texted a code that you’ll need to enter before you can access your account. Or, you can use email authentication, where you’ll be emailed a code that you’ll need to provide before you can access your Epic Games account. In this example, I’ll choose to use an authenticator app. The Enable Authenticator App screen appears.
- In this example I’ll scan the QR code into my authenticator app to add it, and then I’ll enter the security code associated with Epic Games in the app into the Security Code field on the website to confirm it. Click “Activate” after entering the security code. A message appears informing you that two factor authentication is enabled for your Epic Games account. Additionally, when you return to the Passwords and Security screen, you’ll see your chosen method for two factor authentication is enabled in the Two Factor Authentication section. Alternatively, if you choose to use SMS authentication, you’ll need to enter the phone number you want your confirmation code to be texted to, and you’ll need to confirm that code. Additionally, that’s the phone number the code to access your Epic Games account will be sent to going forward. And finally, if you choose to use email authentication a code will be sent to your email address that you’ll need to enter to verify. Again, going forward, this is the email address a security code will be sent to that you’ll need to enter to access your Epic Games account.
Reasons to Use Two-Factor Authentication
1. Improved Security
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. A hacker may guess or steal your password, but obtaining the second authentication factor often proves challenging. This extra step drastically reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access. It’s a critical defense tool against hacking attempts, ensuring a higher level of security for your digital footprint.
2. Protection Against Phishing
Phishing scams trick users into revealing their login credentials. With 2FA, even if you fall for such a scam, the attacker is still denied access. The second layer of authentication acts as a barrier, preventing them from breaching your account. It’s a safety net that guards against human error, enhancing your overall online security.
3. Mitigate the Risk of Weak Passwords
Passwords alone don’t offer optimal security, especially if they’re weak or reused. People often choose simple passwords or repeat them across sites. 2FA mitigates these risky habits by demanding a second verification step. Even with a compromised password, the intruder would still face the hurdle of the second factor, bolstering account security.
4. Ease of Use
2FA may sound complex, but many forms are quite user-friendly. Biometric authentication or push notifications can be quicker and simpler than remembering multiple intricate passwords. This added security measure streamlines the login process while maintaining a high level of account protection.
5. Regulatory Compliance
Certain industries mandate 2FA. Financial services and healthcare, for example, require additional security measures to protect sensitive data. In such cases, 2FA ensures compliance with regulations. It bolsters data security, thus upholding industry standards and legal requirements.
6. Prevents Unauthorized Transactions
In platforms involving financial transactions, 2FA can prevent unauthorized actions. Even if a hacker obtains initial login information, they can’t perform transactions without the second factor. This extra authentication step is crucial in keeping financial operations secure.
7. Increased Trust
Businesses that implement 2FA boost their credibility. Customers and partners gain confidence, knowing their data is safeguarded by enhanced security. 2FA is a sign of commitment to data privacy and security, fostering trust in business relationships.
8. Protection Across Multiple Platforms
2FA isn’t limited to one platform or service. Its broad applicability spans email, social media, and banking, among others. This universal tool enhances security across numerous activities, providing a consistent layer of protection throughout your digital life.
