New Update Gmail: Google plans to end SMS verification in favor of QR codes

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For some time now, Google has been asking for a mobile phone number and verification when new customers create Gmail accounts. SMS verification is also used as part of the login process, to verify that a returning customer is indeed that customer.

Google did introduce an option to enable 2-step verification for accounts without phone number in 2024 already.

A report by Forbes suggest that this is going to change in the coming months. Google plans to end SMS verification in favor of another system.

Google told Forbes that it wants to move away from using SMS messages for authentication.

Google plans to switch off SMS verification in favor of a new system that relies on QR codes. So, instead of being asked to verify access by entering a six digit code sent to a mobile phone number, users are asked to scan the QR code using the mobile phone's camera.

Google believes that this new system is beneficial to itself and its users. Primarily, because it is removing phishing from the equation. Since there is no number that is sent to a mobile phone number anymore, there is nothing that can be phished in that regard.

Gmail: Google plans to end SMS verification in favor of QR codes - gHacks Tech News

Google revealed plans to discontinue SMS verification for security and user verification in favor of a new system using QR codes.

www.ghacks.net

 

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This seems like a logical step for Google to increase security. SMS verification has its vulnerabilities, and QR codes can offer a more secure alternative. It will be interesting to see how this change is implemented and received by users.