What does "two-step verification" entail?

The concept of "two-step verification" involves a security process that requires two different authentication factors to verify a user's identity. This approach enhances security by adding an additional layer beyond just a password. Typically, it combines something the user knows (like a password) with something the user has (such as a smartphone app that generates a one-time code or a text message containing a verification code) or something the user is (like a fingerprint or facial recognition).

By implementing this method, even if an attacker acquires the user's password, they would still need the second factor to gain access to the account, thereby significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access. This methodology is widely adopted across various platforms and services as an effective way to bolster security against common threats, such as phishing attacks or password theft.

In contrast, changing passwords often does not inherently provide the same level of security, and relying on a single authentication factor is less secure than using multiple factors. Additionally, data encryption on servers serves a different purpose, focusing on safeguarding data in storage rather than verifying user identity during the login process.