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Tech Report: Microsoft Rolls Out Two-Factor Authentication

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS)— Microsoft is rolling out two-factor security authentication for email, storage and other services.

That includes products ranging from hotmail and outlook dot com to Skype and XBox.

Two-factor authentication is something you know and something that you have. Think about the ATM card in your wallet. You have it and a PIN number associated with it. So, if someone were to steal your card and not the PIN number it would be of no value. Likewise if someone knew your PIN number but didn't have the card they couldn't break into your bank.

<b>Microsoft Rolls Out Two-Factor Authentication</b>

So the same thing is true whether it comes to getting on an online service like Microsoft, Google, Apple, or anyone else who offers this. You'll always have a password, but in certain cases when you're outside your office or logging in from a different computer, there might be a code sent to your cell phone.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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