How can consumers effectively protect their personal information while online?

Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) is one of the most effective methods for consumers to protect their personal information online. This security measure requires not just a password and username but also something that only the user has on them, such as a physical device or a code sent to their mobile phone. This adds an extra layer of security, meaning that even if someone obtains a user’s password, they cannot access the account without the second factor required for authentication.

Two-factor authentication significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to personal accounts, which is a common tactic used by identity thieves. By requiring multiple forms of verification, it makes it much harder for attackers to breach security, even in cases where passwords may be compromised.

In contrast, using simple passwords can make it easier for malicious actors to guess or crack accounts. Sharing information only on secured sites is important, but without a robust authentication method like 2FA, this practice alone may not sufficiently shield against identity theft. Downloading software from unverified sources poses significant risks, as it can lead to malware infections that compromise personal information. Thus, utilizing two-factor authentication stands out as a crucial step in enhancing online security.