Three zero-cost second factors
Most firms can enable a second factor at no cost using SMS codes, email codes, or an authenticator app. SMS and email depend on carrier or inbox security, which attackers can compromise through SIM swaps or credential stuffing. An authenticator app generates codes locally, removing that exposure.
Why the app choice matters
Google Authenticator and Twilio Authy are the two common options. Both generate time-based one-time passwords. The practical difference is backup and transfer.
Moving credentials to a new phone
Twilio Authy has long offered encrypted cloud backup and multi-device sync. Google Authenticator added cloud sync in 2023, so both now support moving credentials when you replace a phone. Verify that backup is enabled before you retire an old device.