Google Authenticator
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Google Authenticator for Android can finally move accounts between devices
Google has given Authenticator a much-needed update on Android with account transfers between devices and a fresh look.
Perfect Ten: Mobile apps to enhance your MMO lifestyle
We're living in the age of smart phones, when there are more cell phones than there are people on this planet. I can't go anywhere without seeing people constantly whipping out their little rectangular companions for the constant stream of information, social connection, and Candy Crush interludes. While MMOs aren't making great headway on these devices, in part due to the limited input scheme, several wise studios have made good use of the mobile market to give players a way to keep in touch with their games even while AFK. Today we're going to count down, count up, and count sideways 10 official mobile apps that will enhance your MMO lifestyle.
Secure both your WildStar account and cool bonuses with Google Authenticator
WildStar players making plans to jump into this weekend's headstart now have one more thing on their preparation list: to connect their accounts with Google Authenticator. Carbine Studios is offering several goodies for players that make their account extra-secure with Google's two-step authentication. These bonuses include a cybernetic eyepatch, an in-game title, and a 2% bonus to XP, renown, and prestige. You'll need to download the Google Authenticator app and connect it to your NCsoft account to secure these bonuses. WildStar Report has the step-by-step directions for those interested.
Google releases, then pulls Authenticator app version 2.0
Google released version 2.0 of its Authenticator app earlier today, only to pull it from the App Store as users complain that it erased existing stored data and connected accounts. Within hours of the app's release, reviewers reported that it had erased tokens on the iPhones for apps like Dropbox, GoogleApps, Dreamhost, Twilio and Evernote. In some instances, those users found themselves locked out of their apps until they contacted support for each one. Two-step authentication is becoming the standard for password security, and we're sure Google is working on a fix now. When it's back in the store, we'll let you know.
Evernote introduces two-step verification, other security enhancements
Evernote's motto is "remember everything," which means that you might put everything onto the cloud service -- work notebooks, pictures of food, business cards, you name it. One problem with placing all of that personal and work-related information in the cloud is that it makes it a target for identity thieves. Today, Evernote announced three new security-related features to protect your information from prying eyes. The first is two-step verification, which according to Evernote will happen only when you log into Evernote Web or install Evernote on a new device and is only available at this time to Evernote Premium and Business users. Eventually, the company plans to roll out two-step verification to all users. As with other two-step verification methods used by Apple, Google and Dropbox, you combine your password (something you know) with something you have -- a device or browser into which a random six-digit code is entered. That code can either be sent as a text message to your device, or users can fire up Google's Authenticator app to generate the code for them. Evernote emphasizes that two-step verification is optional, and warns users that if they lose access to the secondary access method they can "run the risk of permanently locking yourself out of your account." The other enhancements, which are available to all users of Evernote, include Authorized Applications and Access History. If you lose a computer or device, you can revoke access rights to Evernote from that device using the Evernote Web Account Settings. That app or device will request a password from a user the next time it is launched. Likewise, Access History provides a way to see every time your account was accessed -- including location and IP address -- for the last 30 days. If all of your work is done from a home office in Colorado and you suddenly see that your info is being accessed from Shenzen, China, it's time to change passwords and set up two-step verification (if it's not too late). Evernote spokesperson Ronda Scott noted that "Implementing two-step verification was not trivial. It required updates to all of our applications including Evernote, Skitch, Penultimate, Evernote Food and others and significant back-end work. We've always intended to add two-step as an option to those who wanted it. Back in March we said this was coming and we're rolling it out starting today."
Guild Wars 2: Now with two-factor authentication
Security has kind of been a hot topic in Guild Wars 2. ArenaNet announced a couple weeks ago that they were working on bringing two-factor authentication into play, and that joyous day has arrived! A new post on the official forums introduces players to mobile two-factor security. ArenaNet is using Google's authenticator, which is available on iOS, Android, and Windows Phone, and players will use this authenticator to verify devices rather than the previous email authentication system. The team is advising people that this is currently a beta feature, and already has two changes planned for the near future. Soon, unlinking the mobile authentication system will require additional codes, and users will have an option to remember current networks rather than having to authenticate every login. Visit the official post for complete details for setting up the authentication system.
