Apple ID

Apple bolsters account security with new two-step verification process

Cody Lee ∙ Updated May 2, 2017

It feels like every day we hear a new story about a major internet company like Evernote, Twitter or Facebook getting hacked. And when it happens, user passwords, personal information and uploaded content are all compromised.

With this in mind, it's nice to hear that Apple has given its account security a boost today with a new two-step verification process. The safeguard requires users to verify their identity on a trusted device before making any changes.

Tutorial: How to enable Apple two-step verification

Apple suspends Apple ID password resets over the phone

Christian Zibreg ∙ August 8, 2012

You've no doubt heard about a scandalous security oversight which has enabled hackers to break into former Gizmodo writer Mat Honan's iCloud account to remotely wipe his MacBook Air, iPhone and iPad. He was easily hacked because Amazon used to publish the last four digit of users' credit card on the web, which happens to be exactly what Apple's customer support reps need to reset one's Apple ID password over the phone (in addition to your name and billing address).

Reacting to the security outbreak, Amazon has stepped up its battle to prevent this kind of social engineering. The online retailer on Monday closed a privacy hole that could allow anyone to access to Amazon accounts over the phone using just a name, email address and mailing address.

Amazon also promised to no longer allow adding new credit cards to accounts over the phone. Today, Apple reportedly sent a notice to its support staff, temporarily halting Apple ID password resets over the phone...

iOS 6 Beta 3 finally lets you download free apps without Apple ID

Christian Zibreg ∙ July 23, 2012

We received several tips this past weekend that the latest iOS 6 Beta 3 which was released to Apple's registered developers last week finally does away with Apple ID requirement for free apps. Normally, when you download a free app from the App Store, Apple requires you to enter your existing Apple ID or create a new account.

This never made any sense to ordinary users: I can't tell you how many times my friends (some of whom only download free stuff) asked me if there was a way to drop that pesky requirement. It also doesn't support Apple's 'cut the cord' initiative that lets one set up and use an iOS device without a computer and iTunes...