Authenticators like Google Authenticator or Authy are commonly used as a second factor in two-factor authentication (2FA) to provide an additional layer of security beyond just a password. Many people wonder if using an authenticator app truly protects them from getting hacked. Here is a look at how authenticator apps work and the risks involved.
How do authenticator apps work?
Authenticator apps generate timed one-time passwords (OTP) using a cryptographic algorithm tied to a shared secret key. When you set up 2FA with an authenticator app, the service provider shares a secret key with the app on your device. Your authenticator app then uses this key to generate OTPs periodically (usually every 30 seconds).
To log in, you’ll need to provide both your usual password and the current OTP displayed on the authenticator app. This adds an extra layer of security, as an attacker would need both your password and physical access to your authenticator app to break into your account.
Can you get hacked with an authenticator app?
While authenticator apps significantly improve security, no single method can make you completely invulnerable to hacking. Here are some ways attackers can still bypass 2FA using an authenticator app:
1. Social engineering
Attackers may use phishing or social engineering tactics to trick users into giving up their OTPs or granting account access. For example, they could pose as customer support asking for an OTP to “verify your identity.” Educating yourself on common social engineering tactics makes you less likely to fall for these scams.
2. SIM swapping
SIM swapping is when an attacker is able to port your phone number to a new SIM card they control. This lets them intercept 2FA verification codes sent via SMS. Use an authenticator app instead of SMS-based 2FA to protect against this.
3. Authenticator app vulnerabilities
Like any software, authenticator apps can potentially have vulnerabilities that attackers exploit to access OTPs. For example, malware on your device could extract keys from a vulnerable authenticator app. Keep your devices and apps patched and up-to-date to minimize this risk.
4. Authenticator apps hacked
In rare cases, the authenticator app companies themselves get hacked, exposing customer secrets. For example, a breach at Twilio in 2020 impacted users of Authy. Choosing a reputable authenticator app from a security-focused provider reduces this risk.
5. Account recovery weaknesses
The service provider you use 2FA with may have weak account recovery flows that let attackers bypass 2FA. For example, some services allow removing 2FA over email or by answering insecure “security questions.” Scrutinize the provider’s recovery policies before relying on them for 2FA.
Best practices for using authenticator apps
While authenticator apps have vulnerabilities, they still represent a major security upgrade over passwords alone. Here are some tips to get the most security from your authenticator app:
- Use apps like Google Authenticator or Authy rather than SMS-based 2FA.
- Be vigilant against phishing attempts trying to trick you into giving up codes.
- Use different and strong passwords for each service you enable 2FA with.
- Enable added features like biometric login (fingerprint, faceID) on your authenticator app.
- Check that your providers have secure account recovery flows.
- Keep your devices patched and secured to prevent malware.
Should you use an authenticator app?
Authenticator apps have vulnerabilities like any security tool, but they still offer far better protection than passwords alone. For most people, the benefits of using an authenticator app for 2FA outweigh the risks. Authenticator apps stop many common password hacking methods and buying you time to act if your credentials are compromised. Just be sure to use them properly alongside good password hygiene and security awareness.
With care and smart practices, authenticator apps allow the average user to drastically improve their security against hacking. While not flawless, they add an invaluable second layer that protects you even if your password is stolen. In most cases, authenticator apps are worth using if you value the security of your online accounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are authenticator apps truly hack proof?
No security method is completely hack proof. However, using an authenticator app for 2FA provides a major improvement in security over just relying on passwords. They can prevent many common hacking methods from succeeding.
What if I lose my authenticator app or get a new phone?
Most services provide backup options for authenticator credentials, such as saving one-time recovery codes. You can use backup codes to restore 2FA on a new device. Some apps like Authy also allow syncing your 2FA credentials across devices.
Are hardware security keys more secure than authenticator apps?
Hardware security keys like YubiKey are considered more secure than an app on your phone. This is because hardware keys are immune to malware on your device. But authenticator apps offer a good balance of security and convenience for most people.
Should I use authenticator apps for all my accounts?
Using 2FA everywhere can be cumbersome, so focus on enabling it for important accounts first like email, banking, and social media. For low-risk accounts, authenticator apps provide minimal additional security. Only use them where a breach would cause you harm.
Can SMS-based 2FA also be hacked?
Yes, SMS texts for 2FA codes can be intercepted by attackers more easily than codes from an authenticator app. SIM swapping is a common technique to hijack SMS-based 2FA. Use app-based authentication instead when possible.
The Bottom Line
Authenticator apps have vulnerabilities that technically allow some methods of hacking, such as social engineering, malware, or flaws in recovery flows. However, they still provide vastly improved security over passwords alone for the average user. With care, attention, and smart practices, authenticator apps raise the barrier tremendously for attackers trying to access your accounts. They are worth using as an added layer of protection on top of strong, unique passwords.
Tables Comparing 2FA Methods
Security Level Comparison
| 2FA Method | Security Level |
|---|---|
| SMS Codes | Low |
| Email Codes | Low |
| Security Questions | Low |
| Authenticator App | Medium-High |
| Hardware Key | High |
Convenience Level Comparison
| 2FA Method | Convenience Level |
|---|---|
| SMS Codes | High |
| Email Codes | Medium |
| Security Questions | Medium |
| Authenticator App | Medium |
| Hardware Key | Low |
These tables illustrate how authenticator apps provide a good balance of heightened security without much loss of convenience compared to other common 2FA options.
Conclusion
Authenticator apps are an important security tool that provides robust protection against many hacking methods by requiring dual-factor authentication. While they can theoretically be bypassed in some cases, for most people the security benefits far outweigh any potential weaknesses. Using an authenticator app is one of the best things you can do to improve your account security.