Instagram to get non-SMS 2-factor authentication to prevent SIM hacking

In a bid to prioritize security options for it's user accounts, Instagram is building a non-SMS two factor Instagram 2-factor authentication process which will let you authenticate with code-generating apps like Google Authenticator.

The next time you open an account on Instagram, instead of an SMS you will be given a special code to login that can’t be generated on a different phone in case your number is ported to a hacker’s SIM card, reports TechCrunch who sourced the information from engineer and tipster Jane Manchung Wong. Instagram 2-factor authentication is expected to ease the issue of hacking.

Instagram is finally working on token-based two-factor authentication!! ?

Thank you Instagram! I have been waiting for this since 2016! We finally won't have to rely our account's security on SMS! ? pic.twitter.com/u0iIPTaZO2

— Jane Manchun Wong (@wongmjane) July 17, 2018

With an increase in SIM porting cases, the popular photo-sharing app is taking certain measures to lock the privacy and security of its users. The necessity became a priority when a terrifying Motherboard article put the spotlight on how hackers can port the registered phone number and SIM codes by reassigning it to a different SIM card and later using it to get the  passwords and access accounts via SMS two-factor.

Also Read: No more blocking: Instagram tests ‘Remove Follower’ feature for public accounts

Currently Instagram only provides authentication process through an SMS 2-factor option, but is steadily working on the new feature to strengthen users security.