#GmailUpdate $XRP Google is making a significant update to its Gmail security features, shifting away from SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) and introducing QR code-based authentication instead. But why this sudden change? Let’s break it down.
🔐 Why is Google Removing SMS-Based 2FA?
Currently, Gmail users receive a 6-digit verification code via SMS to complete their two-step verification process. However, Google plans to phase this out in favor of QR code authentication to enhance security.
This move is driven by concerns over phishing attacks and SIM swap fraud, where hackers trick users into revealing their SMS codes, enabling unauthorized access to their accounts. By switching to QR codes, Google aims to provide a more secure and foolproof login method for Gmail users.
According to a Forbes report, Google is expected to roll out this update in the coming months. Once implemented, users will need to scan a QR code using their smartphone’s camera app to complete the login process after entering their password. This ensures a more secure and user-friendly authentication system.
💳 Google Pay Update – Convenience Fees on Card Payments
In addition to this security change, Google has also introduced a new policy on Google Pay transactions. From now on, payments made using debit or credit cards for bills and other services will incur a convenience fee ranging from 1% to 5% of the total amount.
For example, if you pay an electricity bill of ₹1,000 using a card, a 1% fee (₹10) will be applied. However, peer-to-peer UPI transactions and standard merchant payments via UPI will remain free.
It’s important to note that Google Pay is not the first platform to introduce such charges—similar fees already exist on other UPI apps like Paytm and PhonePe.
📌 Final Thoughts
Google’s latest updates focus on enhancing security and aligning payment policies with industry standards. The switch to QR-based authentication is a proactive step toward preventing phishing attacks, while the convenience fee on card transactions brings Google Pay in line with its competitors.
💡 What are your thoughts on these changes? Do you think QR-based authentication is a step in the right direction? Let us know in the comments! ⬇️
#Google #GooglePay #CyberSecurity 🚀