Online shoppers now have the option of using Amazon two-factor authentication on their accounts to improve security. Any users concerned about the number of cyberattacks being suffered by large retailers should take advantage of the new security measure and add Amazon two-factor authentication to their Amazon account at the earliest possible opportunity.

It is not clear exactly when the retail giant implemented the new security feature, as an announcement was not made; however, some users started to notice the option this week. At the present moment in time it is not a mandatory security measure to use, but it is strongly advisable to add it to your account.

Large retailers are big targets for cybercriminals. Retailers such as Amazon may have invested millions or even hundreds of millions in data security solutions and cybersecurity protections, but no company is impervious to attack. One thing that is certain is a great many cybercriminals will attempt to break through Amazon cybersecurity defenses. The company’s colossal database of customer information would be a sizeable reward for all the effort. The retail giant has an estimated 244 million customers. 244 million credit card numbers could be sold for a considerable sum of money.

Why Amazon two-factor authentication doesn’t offer 100% security

It would be nice to live in a world where it is impossible to be hacked or have one’s account details compromised. Unfortunately, but there is no such thing as a 100% secure account because no system is totally foolproof. Two-factor authentication does however get pretty close and, even better, it is easy for companies to implement and straightforward for customers to activate.

Most of the global retailers and major internet brands use two-factor authentication for user accounts; although for some reason (only known to Amazon) the retail giant has refrained from adding this additional security measure until now. It is not a mandatory security measure and will not be added to accounts automatically. If users want enhanced account security, they can access their account settings and turn it on.

How to Add Amazon two-factor authentication to your account

Making your Amazon account more secure is a simple process. You will need to login to your account and access your account settings. The option is located in the “Your Account” dropdown menu in the upper right hand side of your screen.  You will need to scroll to the “Change Account Settings” option, and at the bottom of the list click on “Edit” to the right of the “Advanced Account Settings” section.

You will be directed to the Amazon two-step authentication page. You just need to click on the “get started” option. If you enter your mobile phone number, you will be sent a code which will need to be added into your account settings. Once this has been done, no one other than yourself will be able to access your account even if your password is compromised. Unless a criminal also has your phone of course.

Retailers are being attacked with increasing regularity, so this additional security measure is strongly recommended. Target was targeted, Home Depot was hacked, and Amazon may well be the next major retailer to suffer a significant data breach. This additional security control will offer greater protection.