How to set up two-step verification for Evernote
First released for Premium accounts only, this important security feature is now available to all Evernote users. Learn how to set it up to add another layer of protection to your account.
Two months after introducing two-factor verification to its Premium account users, Evernote has made it available for all users. With this security feature enabled, you will need to enter your password along with a verification code sent to your mobile phone in order to log in to your account. What this means is that if someone gets a hold of your Evernote password, this nefarious individual would also need to be in possession of your phone to access your data.
To enable two-factor verification, log on to your account and go to Evernote's Security section. Before proceeding any further, Evernote will instruct you to update your Evernote apps.
Next, Evernote will send you a verification e-mail. After proving you received the e-mail by clicking a button or entering a six-digit code, you will then give Evernote your mobile number. Evernote will immediately send you a text with a six-digit verification code that you will then enter on the setup screen. Don't get too used to receiving verification codes in this manner, however, if you have a free account. Only premium accounts receive codes via text; free accounts must use an authentication app such as Google Authenticator.
Not to worry, Evernote explains how to set such an app up. I have an iPhone and installed Google Authenticator. After doing so, I scanned a bar code from Evernote using Google Authenticator to set up the app to receive my verification codes.
Lastly, Evernote will issue you four single-use backup codes, which you can use when you need to access your account and don't have your phone. Evernote pleads with you to avoid storing these codes in Evernote, because if you are locked out of Evernote, you won't be able to access the codes. There is also an option to set a backup mobile number should you lose your phone.
After completing the setup, you will need to enter both your password and a six-digit verification code sent to your phone when logging into Evernote or any Evernote apps.
