Gmail's New Way to Verify Your Phone Number

Google is shaking things up with how they verify phone numbers when you create a new Gmail account. Instead of sending a 6-digit code via SMS, they're switching to QR codes. This change is all about making things more secure. SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) has been a target for hackers, so Google wants to move away from it. By using QR codes, Google hopes to make it harder for bad guys to create fake accounts for spam and malware. This new method involves scanning a QR code with your phone's camera app. It's a small but significant change in the account creation process. Google believes this will help reduce the risk of phishing attacks. Phishing is when someone tries to trick you into giving them your personal information. Google isn't getting rid of SMS as a 2FA option completely. You'll still be able to use it alongside other methods like Google Prompt. This new QR code approach is different from passkeys, which are another way to secure your accounts. The change will happen over the next few months. So, if you're setting up a new Gmail account soon, keep an eye out for the QR code. This shift is part of a broader effort to make online security easier and more effective. Google's move to QR codes is a step forward in the fight against cybercrime. It's a reminder that even small changes can make a big difference in keeping our online lives secure. But it's also important to remember that no system is foolproof. Staying vigilant and using multiple layers of security is always a good idea.