In today’s digital world, your personal data is a prime target for hackers. One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself is by using strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA).

This guide will help you:

  • Create strong, unique passwords

  • Enable 2FA on Google, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn

  • Use Microsoft Authenticator and Google Authenticator


🔑 Step 1: Create Strong, Unique Passwords

A strong password should:

  • Be at least 12 characters

  • Use uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols

  • Avoid common words and predictable patterns

  • Be different for every site

💡 Use a password manager like 1Password, Bitwarden, or LastPass to generate and store secure passwords.


🛡️ Step 2: Enable 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication)

2FA requires something you know (your password) and something you have (a temporary code). Even if your password is stolen, 2FA can stop unauthorized access.


🔁 How to Use an Authenticator App

Two top options:

  • Microsoft Authenticator – works with Microsoft and many third-party services

  • Google Authenticator – widely used and simple

📱 Set Up an Authenticator App:

  1. Download the App

  2. When enabling 2FA on an account, choose the “Authentication App” or “Authenticator App” option.

  3. Scan the QR Code using your app.

  4. The app will start generating 6-digit codes every 30 seconds.

  5. Enter one of the codes to confirm and complete setup.

📌 No internet or SIM required to use the app—it works offline!


🧩 Enable 2FA for Major Platforms

📧 Google

  • Go to myaccount.google.com/security

  • Click 2-Step Verification → Get Started

  • Choose Authenticator App

  • Scan the QR code with your app and verify the code


👤 Facebook

  • Visit facebook.com/settings/security

  • Click Two-Factor Authentication > Edit

  • Choose Authentication App

  • Scan the code with Microsoft or Google Authenticator

  • Enter the code shown in the app


📸 Instagram

  • Open the Instagram app

  • Go to Profile > Menu (☰) > Settings and privacy

  • Tap Accounts Center > Password and security > Two-factor authentication

  • Choose Instagram

  • Select Authentication App

  • Follow prompts to connect your authenticator app and verify


💼 LinkedIn

  • Go to linkedin.com/m/settings

  • Click Sign in & security > Two-step verification

  • Turn it on, and choose Authentication App

  • Scan the QR code using Google or Microsoft Authenticator

  • Enter the generated code to finish setup