Two-Step Authentication in Skype: Why It Matters and Set It Up

When using programs and services on the Internet where we have to put our personal data and log in, as would be the case with Skype , we must exercise extreme caution and not make mistakes. For this reason, in this article we are going to explain how to activate two-step authentication. This allows adding an extra layer of security and preventing the entry of hackers who could steal information and compromise our privacy. We will also explain why it is very important.

Why Two-Step Authentication Matters

Two-Step Authentication in Skype

When we want to protect a social network account, email or any login, the first thing we do is create a password. That is the most basic and elementary thing to prevent anyone from entering with our user. But of course, sometimes that password can leak . We can be victims of Phishing attacks that steal the key, malware such as a keylogger that collects all the keystrokes, brute force attacks …

To prevent someone from accessing the Skype account even after having stolen the password we can use 2FA . It consists of a second step necessary to be able to authenticate. It is usually a code that we receive by SMS, for example.

In this way, if someone tries to enter with our user from another computer, they would have to enter the correct password and, in addition, fill in that second step, which is multi-factor authentication . It is, without a doubt, an extra guarantee that this Skype account will be protected.

Therefore, we can say that activating two-step authentication in Skype is something that we all must do. This function is increasingly present in the different programs and social networks that we use and also, for some time, we can enable it in the popular messaging and calling application.

Steps to activate 2FA in Skype

So how do you turn on two-step authentication in Skype? After explaining what it is and what its advantages are, we are going to explain what we can do to configure the account correctly and be able to use 2FA . It is very simple and we will not have to install anything additional.

Access the account

The first thing obviously is to log in with our Skype account. We are going to do it from the browser. Once we have entered the corresponding data, we give you My account and it will take us to a new window with everything related to the configuration, profile, etc.

Once here you have to go to the Security section. There we will find a window like the one we see in the image below. Different options will appear and one of them, which appears at the top right, is Two-Step Verification .

Opciones de seguridad en Skype

Activate 2-Step Verification

In this new window, the methods that we have configured to log in will appear. The password will logically appear and, also, if we have activated any additional method. In our case, what we must do, since we are starting from scratch, is to activate the verification in two steps , so we mark that option.

Configurar la verificación en dos pasos en Skype

When we do that, a new window will appear as we see in the image above. There they inform us of the necessary information. We have to click Next and we will move on to the next step to configure 2FA in Skype.

Choose the type of two-step authentication

The next thing we have to do is choose the type of two-step authentication. There are several options and the truth is that not all of them are equally safe. As we see in the image, we have three alternatives: an application, an email account or a phone number.

Tipos de 2FA en Skype

The first option allows us to authenticate through an application that we install on the mobile. For example Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator. What we do is validate a login, indicating that we are really a legitimate user who is trying to enter the account.

Another option is to use an e-mail account to which they will send us a code and, the third option, a phone number where they will send us an SMS with that code that we must fill in.

Any of the three is better than nothing, but the truth is that there have been cases in which an attacker has been able to avoid the 2FA configured to receive a code by SMS. There is malware capable of recording the messages we receive, for example. It is better to use an application.

Configure the chosen option

Once we choose which two-step authentication method we want to use, we simply have to click Next. It will ask us to fill in data in case of choosing to verify by e-mail or by phone number, as well as to download an application in case of opting for this alternative.

For example, in the case of selecting an alternative email, we will have to enter a four-digit code that is sent to that address. From there we will have verified that we are really the legitimate user of that account and two-step authentication will be activated in Skype.

You don’t have to do anything more than this. By following these steps we will have increased the security of the Skype account and thus avoid the unwanted entry of intruders that could compromise privacy and take advantage of password leaks.

Conclusions to activate 2FA in Skype

Therefore, after explaining how to enable multi-factor authentication in Skype we can say that it is highly recommended. We are going to notably improve the security of the account and avoid problems that may affect us if, for example, there is a security leak on the platform itself, we have been victims of a Phishing attack or have simply guessed the password.

2FA is going to add that extra layer of security so important to avoid any of these problems. In addition, we have seen that there are different options to configure it, such as the code by SMS, e-mail or the use of an application. Our advice is to use this last alternative, but any of the three will also serve to increase protection.