Apple strengthens iCloud security with 2 step verification

Apple has introduced two-step verification to its cloud storage system iCloud, which adds an extra layer of security to users Apple ID.

Apple's iCloud is the cloud-based service for storing and syncing mail, photos, contacts and other account information among devices, which remains on internet and can be accessed from anywhere. The service also lets users locate, erase, and ring their registered devices.

The two-step verification adds an extra layer to of security to one's Apple ID or iCloud account by requiring user to provide extra information at login to confirm their identity. Now, users who have two-step authentication enabled on either will need to complete this extra step when accessing apps through iCloud.com, the Mashable reported.

When accessing a web app on iCloud.com, including Mail, Contacts, Calendar or Notes, a text message with a four-digit code will be sent to the device tied to the account. That code must be entered before one can access any of iCloud.com's web apps, with the exception of Find My iPhone. The exception seems legit because when one is trying to find their phone, they surely can't access the code sent on their device.

Apple first rolled out two-step verification for individual iTunes and iCloud accounts last year after its security practices came under fire following an incident when then-Wired reporter Mat Honan's phone was hacked. Honan's iPhone, iPad and Macbook were remotely wiped by a hacker who talked his way past the security questions with Apple's tech support, the report added.