In an increasingly sophisticated digital world, online security has become a top priority for businesses. Google, as one of the major players in the digital landscape, is not to be outdone. From June 6, 2023, Google will require all Google Ads users to activate two-step validation to strengthen the security of their accounts.
What is two-stage validation?
Two-step validation, also known as two-factor authentication or 2FA, is a security feature that requires two distinct forms of identification to access an online account. Usually, this involves something you know (like a password) and something you own (like a cell phone to receive a verification code).
Why does Google require two-step validation?
Google has decided to require two-stage validation due to the increasing number of cyber attacks. Hackers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and can often guess or steal passwords. With two-step validation, even if a hacker obtains your password, it’s almost impossible for them to access your account without the second authentication factor.
How do I activate two-step validation for my Google Ads account?
Google has made it easy for you to activate two-step validation for your Google Ads account. You can do this by following a few simple steps:
1-Log in to your Google Ads account.
2-Click on your account icon in the top right-hand corner.
3-Select “Account security” from the drop-down menu.
4-Under “Two-step validation”, click on “Get started”.
5-Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your second authentication factor.
Two-step management of users and validation parameters
As a Google Ads account administrator, you can also manage two-step validation settings for other users of your account. You can do this by accessing the “Account access” page and selecting “Multi-factor authentication settings”. For each user, you can enable or disable two-step validation, as well as modify the authentication methods available.
What are the advantages of two-step validation for your Google Ads account?
Enabling two-step validation for your Google Ads account has several advantages:
- Enhanced security: by adding an extra layer of protection, you significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your account, data theft or hijacking of your advertising campaigns.
- Protection against phishing: two-step validation makes phishing attacks less effective, as a hacker would also need to have access to your second piece of identification to gain access to your account.
- Peace of mind: knowing that your account is protected by two-step validation, you can concentrate on optimizing your Google Ads campaigns without worrying about account security.
How does two-step validation affect your marketing agency?
For a web design and marketing agency like Nuaweb, the implementation of two-step validation is excellent news. It reinforces customer confidence by ensuring that their Google Ads accounts are managed securely. What’s more, it helps protect the agency from the damaging consequences of account hacking.
Two-step validation preparation
If you haven’t yet activated two-step validation for your Google Ads account, it’s time to start getting ready. Make sure that all your account users are aware of this next requirement, and that they are ready to implement two-step validation. If you’re working with a marketing agency, make sure they’re prepared for this change too.
In conclusion, two-step validation is an important security measure that can greatly improve the security of your Google Ads account. While this may require a small adjustment in the way you access your account, the security benefits far outweigh the minor inconveniences. At Nuaweb, we fully support this initiative and are here to help our customers navigate this transition to ensure the security of their accounts.
Note: If you have already activated two-step validation for your Google Ads account, no further action is required on your part. If this is not the case, we encourage you to activate two-step validation today to further strengthen your account security.
