Following Google’s announcement that it is shifting from SMS to QR code for Gmail authentication, users have expressed divided options.
In a Reddit thread on 24 February, the Gmail users expressed divided opinions on what the shift to QR code could mean for security and convenience, while others offered suggestions that would have been better.
A timely shift or a mistake
Google announced recently that it is phasing out the use of SMS for verification during login, making room for QR codes instead.
The company said that this is in a bid to improve the security of users and reduce the risk of phishing which is a common way of hacking gmail accounts.
Indeed, most high tech platforms like Google have gone beyond using SMS for authentication to something more advanced, such as authenticators and passkeys.
This is why for some Gmail users, the switch from SMS is a timely and necessary one.
“Good. SMS is insecure and worse, Google will automatically enrol you into SMS 2FA if you ever give them your phone number. Authenticator or Fido keys are the way to go.”
But for some, the idea of QR codes couldn’t be worse, because it means users will have to stay signed in on the app, which sends their data to Google.
“I agree that SMS is outdated and insecure, but holy crap that’s not a good solution. The answer is “do it our way, or be insecure”?If only there was an open standard for multi-factor authentication codes that they could… oh wait. There is. Sadly little G is allergic to open standards because it gives them less control.”
One of many changes
This switch to QR codes for verification is just one of many changes that Google has made to its services recently.
One of the most significant changes made so far is the addition of short videos to Google search results for desktop to enhance user experience.
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