How to enable two-step verification for iMessages and FaceTime

After having added a two-step verification feature to allow users to secure their iCloud (Apple ID) accounts, and extending the protection to iCloud backups last September, Apple has now made the system cover FaceTime and iMessage.

According to The Guardian, the feature will protect users both on devices running iOS and machines running OS X.

If you have already previously enabled two-step verification on your iCloud account, you’ll simply have to generate an app-specific password when you sign into iMessages or FaceTime on a new device, or if you log out and then log in again into your FaceTime or iMessages accounts on the same device.

If you haven’t enabled this added protection feature yet, you can do so by going to you the AppleID management page, signing in, selecting the Password and Security tab, and enabling Two-Step Verification. Here’s more information from Apple.

Users who opt for two-step verification can gain access to their accounts even if they lose the devices or forget their password, as they are given a recovery key when they set up the feature. They are advised to write down the key and keep it in a safe place at home or at their office.