It’s not about the convenience, it’s about your security.

It’s not about the convenience, it’s about your security.

Xero’s new two-step authentication

Working with our clients recently there were a lot of questions around Xero’s introduction of two-step authentication (2SA) and how it’s another thing to do in your business. When talking this through with clients I explain how this is just another example of how serious Xero takes on their role as custodians of our data. In my eyes, this is just another example of why I love working with Xero.

Currently, there are large corporates that get most of the publicity about cybercrimes and hacking, but let’s not forget small businesses are targeted as well. We understand the impact of such a situation can have and as small business owners, a set back like this can ruin a business’s reputation and shorten its lifespan.

Xero’s new 2SA is available to all Xero customers and provides an additional layer of security for your Xero accounts. When you enable two-step authentication, you need to provide two ‘factors’ to login, plus your Xero username. The first factor is something you know, like your password. The second factor is something you have, a unique six-digit code that’s generated by a separate app on your smartphone (such as Google Authenticator or Authy).

When enabled, only the Xero user with access to that trusted device will be able to login – making it more difficult for unauthorised people to access your data. This new two-step authentication can be used across multiple software platforms so it can be incorporated seamlessly.

Here are more details about 2SA, including a video with instructions for setting it up from our team at Xero.

If your still unsure or would like some help give us a call or come in and see us at Business Edge Accountants.