Protect Your Accounts: Apps to Save and Check Passwords

We live connected all the time. Social networks, emails, banks, online stores and many other services require the use of passwords — and we often use the same password for everything. This is a risk. In a scenario where virtual attacks and data leaks are becoming increasingly common, protecting your accounts is no longer an option. It is a necessity.

But you don't have to be a tech expert to protect yourself. There are free apps that offer a powerful solution: Two-factor authentication (2FA). This technology adds an extra layer of security by asking for, in addition to the password, a temporary code generated on your cell phone.

In this article, you will learn about two free apps, available both in Google Play Store and the App Store, which work as two-step authentication: the Google Authenticator and the Authy. With them, your accounts will be much more protected — in a simple and effective way.

Why use two-step authentication?

Even strong passwords can be discovered. They can be leaked in attacks on major websites, captured by online scams, or guessed by automated programs. Two-factor authentication protects you in these cases.

This technology works in a simple way: when logging into an account, in addition to the password, you need to enter a temporary code generated by an app on your phone. This code changes every few seconds and can only be accessed by you.

This means that even if an attacker knows your password, they won't be able to access your account without the second verification factor.

1. Google Authenticator: lightweight and to the point

O Google Authenticator is one of the most popular apps in the world for two-step authentication. Created by Google itself, it is compatible with thousands of websites, services and applications, such as Facebook, Instagram, Gmail, Amazon, and many others.

How does it work?

You enable two-step verification on a website and scan a QR code with the app. From there, it starts generating six-digit codes that change every 30 seconds. Every time you log in, you’ll need to enter this code.

Key Features:

• Code generation even without an internet connection;
• Clean and distraction-free interface;
• Compatible with multiple services and platforms;
• Lightweight, ad-free and free;
• No need to create an account.

For those looking for practicality and security with a reliable app, Google Authenticator is an excellent choice.

2. Authy: Enhanced security with backup and sync

If you are looking for even more features, the Authy is a powerful alternative. It offers the same features as Google Authenticator, but with some important differences — such as encrypted backup and the synchronization between devices.

That is, if you change or lose your cell phone, you can restore your codes without losing everything.

Highlighted features:

• Secure, password-protected backup;
• Synchronization between cell phone, tablet and computer;
• Modern and intuitive interface;
• Extra protection with PIN or biometrics;
• Offline support (no internet).

How to use?

1. Install Authy and register your phone number.
2. Enable 2FA on the desired accounts and scan the QR codes with the app.
3. Enable encrypted backup if you want to recover your data in the future.
4. Use the codes whenever prompted during logins.

Authy is ideal for those who have multiple accounts or switch devices frequently, offering security with flexibility.

Which one to choose?

It depends on your usage profile. See which one best fits your routine:

• Google Authenticator: recommended for those looking for simplicity, lightness and no need for cloud synchronization.
• Authy: ideal for those who value mobility, want automatic backup and want to use the app on more than one device.

Both are safe, free, work offline and are compatible with the main platforms. In fact, there is nothing stopping you from testing both and choosing the one you prefer.

Other tips for keeping your accounts secure

In addition to using two-step authentication, it is important to maintain some security habits:

• Create different passwords for each service;
• Use long passwords with letters, numbers and symbols;
• Do not share passwords with anyone;
• Be wary of suspicious emails or links;
• Keep your cell phone protected with a password or biometrics.

Remember: digital security is also a matter of daily care.

Conclusion

In a digital world that is increasingly exposed to risks, protecting your passwords and accounts is essential. Applications Google Authenticator It is Authy are free and reliable allies in this mission.

Both offer the extra layer of security you need by using two-factor authentication. Installing one of these apps on your phone takes less than five minutes, but it can save you a lot of headaches that last a lot longer.

Download it now, set it up on your main accounts and sleep easy knowing your information is protected.