AMID controversies, Twitter announced that it would soon disable an added layer of security feature for non-Twitter Blue subscribers.
Starting March 20, the microblogging platforms said they will turn off the two-factor authentication feature via text messaging for all its users. Only Twitter Blue subscribers who pay US$8 a month will get the security feature.
What is two-factor authentication
Twitter has been offering an extra layer of security for its users.
Aside from entering only a password to log in, Twitter users may opt for an additional “factor” to authenticate they are indeed the users and protect their Twitter handles from potential hackers.
Twitter offered three methods: a one-time use code sent via SMS, via an authentication app, or via a physical security key.
The SMS method is the most popular 2FA.
In a statement, Twitter said the two-factor authentication (2FA) has been “used and abused by bad actors,” prompting the company to stop allowing the feature to be used.
“We will no longer allow accounts to enroll in the text message/SMS method of 2FA unless they are Twitter Blue subscribers,” it said.
Those who are using the 2FA feature via SMS will be disabled by the social media platform.
Twitter Blue
Twitter Blue is a new plan introduced by Elon Musk upon acquiring Twitter that requires a monthly payment and provides users exclusive access to app customizations. As a result, users have more creative control over the material they share on Twitter.
The Twitter Blue subscription costs $8 a month or $84 a year.
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The availability of 2FA via text message services for Twitter Blue varies depending on the country and the network provider.
Those who have 2FA through SMS need to “unenroll” to keep their accounts. But Twitter said they reserved the right to keep the users’ mobile phone numbers.
Users angst
Following the announcement of paid two-factor authentication, several users questioned why “basic security measure” has to be shouldered by its users.
“I have never seen a social media company charge money for a basic security measure like a two-factor authentication before. This is getting ridiculous lmao,” a user tweeted.
“I logged onto Twitter and was greeted with a notification that said only Twitter Blue subscribers could use two-factor authentication. Imagine being so bad at (the) business you make people pay for standard security practices that are free everywhere. Will never pay,” another user said.
Other 2FA methods available
Twitter has encouraged all its non-Blue users to download third-party authentication apps or buy physical security keys to secure their accounts.
“These methods require you to have physical possession of the authentication method and are a great way to ensure your account is secure,” it said.
