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How to set up two-factor authentication (2FA) and why you need it
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It’s one of the most effective ways to add extra security to important accounts. Here’s all you need to know about 2-step verification and how to enable it
By Virgin Media Edit
- Published
- 24 September 2026
Two-factor authentication (2FA). 2-step verification (2SV). Multi-factor authentication (MFA). It’s one of the most effective ways to protect important online accounts like email, banking and your socials from cyber criminals.
Even if you’ve protected an account with a strong and unique password (kudos, by the way), scammers can steal passwords – either through historical data breaches, shoulder surfing, phishing emails or text messages or other dark ways.
Before we dive into what you need to know about 2-step verification and how to set it up, if you need more security in your arsenal, don’t forget about Virgin Media Advanced Security. Learn more about Advanced Security for a no-commitment three-month trial – it won’t cost you a thing – and download it on all your online devices to get going.
What is two-factor authentication and how does it work?
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2-step verification is a security feature that requires two forms of identification before you can access an account. Typically, you’ll enter your password and then confirm your identity using a code, authenticator app or biometric check. It adds an additional step to prove you have the right to access an online account. Step one is entering your account credentials as normal. But the second step, once you enable it, means you’ll also receive an additional PIN code, either by SMS or email. You then enter it to show it’s really you trying to get into the account.
The reason it’s a more effective way to protect your account: even if a scammer has your password, the second step should be something that you (and only you) can access. It puts two locked doors in front of the criminal, rather than one.
Other types of 2-step verification include fingerprints, face scans or using a specific app (like ones provided by Microsoft or Google). Some sites or services will call you back with a PIN or code or use a separate device like a dongle, card reader or USB stick.
It only takes a few minutes to set this up, and you’ll instantly be much safer online. You won’t always need to enter a PIN or code every time you access a service – it depends on the account, the device or how you’ve set it up. Normally you’ll only need to use 2-step verification when you use a new device or if you haven’t used your account for a while.
When should I use 2-step verification?
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Think of it this way: if there are accounts you’d be devastated to lose access to, or if a scammer gained access to them, those are the ones that need the extra protection. Obvious ones include your bank or cloud storage accounts – and many of them have 2-step verification as standard practice.
Email accounts
Your email account should be one of the first places you enable 2-step verification. Cybercriminals can use access to your inbox to reset passwords for other services, potentially giving them access to multiple accounts.
Banking and payment accounts
Banking, payment and shopping accounts often contain sensitive financial information and personal details. If a scammer gains access to one of these accounts, it could lead to unauthorised purchases, transfers or fraud.
Social media accounts
Many people don't think of social media accounts as particularly valuable. But over the years, these accounts can become home to personal information, photos, memories, friends and followers. Losing access to them can be frustrating, and in some cases scammers may use compromised accounts to target other people.
Cloud storage accounts
Cloud storage services often contain important documents, photos, backups and personal files. Whether it's years of family photos or important work documents, losing access could be a major headache. 2-step verification helps protect your files by requiring an extra verification step before anyone can sign in.
How do I set up 2-step verification?
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Setting up 2-step verification usually takes a few minutes. Most websites follow a similar process:
Sign in to your account
Open your Security or Privacy settings
Select 2-Step Verification or Two-Factor Authentication
Choose how you’d like to verify your identity
Verify your device
Save any recovery codes provided
For specific advice for some of the most popular websites, check out these official guides below:
How to turn on 2-step verification for social media:
X (formerly Twitter)
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
TikTok
How to turn on 2-step verification for email accounts:
How to turn on 2-step verification for bank and shopping accounts:
How to turn on 2-step verification for messaging apps and other accounts:
Add extra protection with Virgin Media Essential and Advanced Security
Essential Security is included with Virgin Media broadband at no extra cost and helps warn you about potentially harmful websites on your home WiFi network. You can also manage your Essential Security settings , including parental controls, through My Virgin Media.
For protection beyond your home network, you can try Advanced Security powered by F-Secure. You can try it free for three months, with no payment details required, then continue for just £3.50 a month (or £35 a year) if you'd like ongoing protection.
Together, they provide extra layers of protection against online threats. Learn more about Essential Security and Advanced Security to find the right level of protection for you and your family.
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Virgin Media Advanced Security: New Virgin Media Advanced Security customers only. Registration required. One subscription per Virgin Media customer. Not available on BlackBerry. Unlimited devices, after the first 15 devices will need to be registered via F-Secure. £3 per month or annual subscription for £30 after trial period. See here for full details. https://www.f-secure.com/en/legal/terms
