Google is soon going to discontinue SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) for Gmail. According to a report, the company is now going to introduce Quick Response (QR) codes instead of SMS codes. The change is aimed at increasing the security of Google accounts, as cybercriminals can trick users into sharing their SMS login codes. The SMS-based 2FA system is still supported on many platforms despite being outdated.

Use of QR code for 2FA in Gmail

According to a Forbes report, Google will implement a QR code in place of an SMS code in the coming months. Until now, whenever a user logged into his account, Google used to send him a 6-digit code via SMS, which had to be input after entering the correct password. This was Google's first 2FA system introduced in 2011, however, more secure options have been added in subsequent years.

When Google removes SMS-based 2FA, Gmail users will be shown a QR code that will have to be scanned with the smartphone's camera app. The company believes that this method will be a more secure way to verify users' identity, which will prevent SMS-based attacks.

Efforts to reduce threats from SMS-based 2FA
Google spokesperson Ross Richendreffer said on this change, "SMS codes pose a big risk to users. We are introducing a new and secure method to limit the possibilities for attackers and keep users safe."

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