Microsoft offers enhanced security for sign-ins

Users will be asked to provide a second piece of information beyond a username and password

Published April 17, 2013 10:05PM (EDT)

      (AP/Nick Ut)
(AP/Nick Ut)

NEW YORK (AP) -- Microsoft is offering enhanced security for email, storage and other services.

People who turn on the new feature will be asked not just for a username and password, but also a second piece of information, such as a temporary code sent as a text message to a phone on file. Users can have their devices remember the second code, so they're not asked for it again and again.

Google Inc. and Facebook Inc. already allow two-step verification as an option.

The security enhancements work with all Microsoft accounts, such as email addresses ending in Hotmail.com, MSN.com and Outlook.com. Those accounts unlock a range of Microsoft Corp. products, including email, Skype, SkyDrive storage, Xbox gaming, Office software subscriptions and Windows 8 machines.


By Associated Press

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