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Let’s dive into today’s topic:
Protect every account with two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication takes a few minutes to set up on every platform you use.
Why it matters
Most artists, with some exceptions, are trustworthy brands. They have a specific reach within specific target audiences, and an above-average follower count. This makes artists prime targets for identity theft, which can lead to all sorts of fraud: investment fraud, crypto fraud, dating fraud and more.
Over the years, I’ve received multiple DMs from artists whose accounts I follow, telling me to buy this-or-that cryptocurrency for guaranteed profit. The fraudsters probably DM everyone who follows the account.
I’ve also heard from artists I’ve worked with who were hacked and couldn’t recover their Instagram accounts. They had to start over (and start a newsletter, because then the data is yours).
With voice cloning, the threat extends beyond social media. The risk is identity theft at the level of a personality or brand, not a single account.
The solution is simple: protect your accounts with two-factor authentication.
How it works
In its simplest form, two-factor authentication (2FA) is an additional verification code you enter after entering your username and password.
An algorithm generates the code. It is delivered via text message or an authenticator app such as Google Authenticator, Proton Authenticator, 1Password, etc.
It’s easy to set up. Every app does it slightly differently, but the basic steps are almost the same everywhere: Open the app, go to Settings, then look for Security, Account, or Login. The option is usually called “Two-factor authentication” or “2-step verification”.
Do this on every platform you use: social media, DSPs, email, and even your grocery app. Start with your email, because most other accounts reset their passwords through it.
Yes, but..
Two-factor authentication doesn’t make an account hack-proof. Scammers can still trick people into handing over a code. Never share a code with anyone, even if they claim to be from the platform.
Take action now
Artists can check their most important social media account now, and set up 2FA straight away if it isn’t switched on yet.
Your thoughts
Further reading
Safely sharing passwords within artist teams (The Fanbase Builder)
Don’t clone your own voice (The Fanbase Builder)