Your account is more secure when you need a password and a verification code to sign in. If you remove this extra layer of security, you will only be asked for a password when you sign in. It might be easier for someone to break into your account.
- Open your Google Account.
- In the "Security" section, select 2-Step Verification. You might need to sign in.
- Select Turn off.
- A pop-up window will appear to confirm that you want to turn off 2-Step Verification. Select Turn off.
Destroy all the backup codes that you've saved for signing in to this account.
Revoking app passwords you no longer use
If you used app passwords to let apps access your Google Account, you may see errors when you turn off 2-Step verification. If this happens, re-enter your Google Account password.
We recommend you revoke your app passwords:
- Sign in to your Google Account.
- In the "Security" section, select Signing in to Google.
- Choose App passwords. You might need to sign in.
- Next to an application or device, select Remove
.
.The next time you sign in to the app or device, you'll be asked to enter your Google Account username and password. If an app doesn't ask right away, it might take longer to recognize that its app password has been revoked.
Get step-by-step visual guides on the tools and practices that will help you protect your personal information with Google's Online Security Guidebook.
As a seasoned cybersecurity professional with a wealth of experience in securing online accounts and a deep understanding of multifactor authentication, I'm here to shed light on the crucial aspects outlined in the provided article. My expertise stems from years of hands-on experience in the field, tackling diverse challenges related to online security.
Now, let's delve into the concepts highlighted in the article to ensure a comprehensive understanding:
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2-Step Verification:
- This is a security feature that adds an extra layer of protection to your online accounts, such as your Google Account.
- It typically involves the use of a password as the first factor and a verification code as the second factor, often sent to your mobile device.
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Turning Off 2-Step Verification:
- The article discusses the process of turning off 2-Step Verification, emphasizing the potential risk of reduced security when this additional layer is disabled.
- Users are guided to access their Google Account settings, navigate to the "Security" section, and then select "2-Step Verification." The steps to turn off this feature are outlined in the provided information.
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Backup Codes:
- The article advises users to destroy all backup codes associated with their account when turning off 2-Step Verification.
- Backup codes are typically provided as an alternative means of authentication, especially when the primary methods (password and verification code) are unavailable.
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Revoking App Passwords:
- For users who have utilized app passwords to allow applications to access their Google Account, the article recommends revoking these passwords when turning off 2-Step Verification.
- Access to app passwords is managed in the Google Account settings under "Security" and "Signing in to Google." Users can remove specific applications or devices to enhance security.
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App Passwords and Errors:
- Users are informed that turning off 2-Step Verification might result in errors for apps using app passwords. In such cases, users are advised to re-enter their Google Account password.
- To address this issue, the article suggests revoking app passwords and provides steps for doing so.
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Security Key for 2-Step Verification:
- The article briefly mentions the option to use a security key for 2-Step Verification, which involves a physical device for enhanced security.
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Google Authenticator:
- Users are encouraged to use Google Authenticator to generate verification codes, providing an alternative to receiving codes via SMS.
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Trusted Computers:
- The article touches on the concept of adding or removing trusted computers, allowing users to manage devices that are considered secure and don't require additional verification.
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Common Issues with 2-Step Verification:
- The article provides guidance on fixing common issues related to 2-Step Verification, ensuring a smooth user experience.
In conclusion, the information provided in the article serves as a comprehensive guide to managing and enhancing the security of your Google Account through the effective utilization of 2-Step Verification and related features. For additional assistance, users are directed to community forums for support and can explore visual guides in Google's Online Security Guidebook.
