With the amount of security threats that are on the internet these days, backup codes can give you a master key if things go wrong.
In this post we will talk about what these codes are, how to access them, and offer tips on how to store them in order to keep your accounts and personal data tied to those accounts safe.
What are backup codes?
Backup codes are security codes that allow access to an account that we cannot properly authenticate by logging in through the already established credentials. These can be the last line of defense in regards to account security.
Let’s rewind to the beginning to make everything perfectly clear.
To break things down we will talk about what accounts are, and what authentication means.
What are Account Credentials?
When signing up for a website, we are given an account with credentials tied to our own personal information.
Firstly the account will need an email address, and sometimes a unique username. These are considered identifiers, and identify who we are to the websites membership system.
After that they may ask for some basic information like your name and birthday, maybe your phone number etc. You then create a password and our account is created.
Some websites will then ask for another form of authentication, which just means a way to prove you are who you said you were when you signed up. This extra form of authentication beyond the password is what is being referred to when you hear the term Two Factor Authentication, or 2FA for short.
This second form of authentication can be done by receiving an email or a text message, or using an authenticator app, or sometimes security questions.
This makes accounts far more secure than if just a password is being used. Unfortunately, sometimes people lose access to their second form of verification, or it is changed when an account is stolen. This is where backup codes can be a lifesaver and often our last line of defense against forgetfulness or malicious activity.
How to access BACKUP CODES
These codes exist in the settings in the security section of any website that offers them.
Some examples of major websites who offer them are:
- Discord
- Login.gov
- ID.me
- Github
Using Facebook as an example; we will first click on the settings option.
After there we will go to accounts center.
In accounts center we will select passwords and security.
Next we will select two factor authentication, and then additional methods.
After that we will select recovery codes.
Here we find the codes that we can use to recover our accounts as a last resort. This is especially useful for Facebook because it can be very difficult for account recovery when no proper credentials are known.
How to store Your Codes safely
There are multiple ways to store and keep your recovery codes safe. Organization is key.
Some good methods are:
- Saving them in an encrypted folder or on an encrypted drive
- Writing them in a password book, if kept in a secure location
- Storing them in a fireproof document box or secure folder
Since this information is sensitive and again, a master key and the last line of defense for your account, it is a good idea to make sure they are in a secure place.
It would be very bad if malicious users got hold of these codes, and potentially catastrophic for your account, so it is important to treat and store them with caution.
If you have questions about how to safely and effectively use backup codes, or our other services, please call or email. We’re happy to assist you! Feel free to use our contact form to send us a message. Thank you!
