Micro-blogging site Twitter has introduced an optional ‘two-factor authentication‘ feature using mobile phone verification on the social network, as part of its efforts to beef up security after a series of high-profile breaches into its accounts in recent past.
According to the social networking firm, the new system would allow users to opt for a two-step system that would necessitate a verification code for each sign-in.
Twitter product security head, Jim O’Leary, said users still have to opt for a strong password.
"Of course, even with this new security option turned on, it’s still important for you to use a strong password and follow the rest of our advice for keeping your account secure," O’Leary said.
"You’ll need a confirmed email address and a verified phone number. After a quick test to confirm that your phone can receive messages from Twitter, you’re ready to go."
Twitter’s move follows recent hacking of Twitter accounts of the Associated Press (AP), The Guardian, the BBC, France 24 TV, and National Public Radio in the US.
Additionally, the micro-blogging site has also warned news agencies to improve security and advised them to develop sure passwords of about 20 characters long comprising random strings of letters and numbers.
Two US federal agencies, including the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) are probing the hacking of Twitter account of news agencies.
