Scan to Secure: Gmail's QR Code Makeover Kicks SMS Goodbye

Google will overhaul Gmail security by dumping SMS-based two-factor authentication in favor of QR code verification. The switch, which should be rolled out later this year, is designed to better protect accounts and make them more secure from SMS vulnerabilities. Users will increasingly use smartphone cameras to scan QR codes, rather than typing in six-digit codes that are sent over texts. This addresses concerns regarding phishing attacks, SIM swapping, and "traffic pumping" scams. Google's security and privacy public relations head Ross Richendrfer underscored the necessity to shift away from SMS verification, following the general trend in the industry towards more secure authentication. This change is an important move within Google's continued initiative to enhance user account security.
Source: Forbes