Apple users on the beta version of iOS 10.3 are reportedly getting push notifications from Apple to enable Two Factor Authentication for their Apple user IDs to help improve device and iOS app security. With version 10.3, it seems like Apple is now taking steps to encourage users to secure their devices as two factor authentication will add an extra security layer on iCloud data and Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads and Macs.

The two-factor authentication feature has been part of Apple device and iOS app security for a while. It was made available more than a year ago since iOS 9 and OS X EI Capitan were introduced. The availability of 2FA was first noticed on iCloud after a number of celebrity hacking incidents took place. Soon after Apple took measures to secure the devices and iCloud data of its users.

If you are using iOS 9 or later versions and your device suits the system requirements, you do not have to wait for Apple to give you 2FA reminders. In order to enable 2FA on your Apple device, here are the steps you need to take:

• Go to “Settings”
• When you open settings, scroll down to “iCloud” (when you are already logged in with your iCloud ID)
• Tap your ID that appears at the top of the screen
• Tap “Password and Security”
• Look for “Two-Factor Authentication”. It will most probably be turned “off”. Tap “Turn on Two-Factor Authentication”
• Follow the instructions as they appear, to set up 2FA on your device.

In the last step, you may be asked for verification of your identity and answer your security question or confirm your credit card details already linked with your Apple ID. If you have not already set up a password or pattern on your device, you will first be asked to create one before enabling 2FA.

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