Proton has just announced the release of Proton Authenticator. This free, open-source two-factor authentication (2FA) app should give you more flexibility along with strong encryption, with a similar feature set as Authy.
You can grab this new authenticator onthe official websitefor Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux. If you’ve ever used Authy, Google Authenticator, thethird-party 2FA feature on Apple devices, or Microsoft Authenticator, it should feel familiar. When you set up code-based 2FA on a website (sometimes called “two-factor app” or some variation of that), you get a code to enter or scan—just put that into Proton Authenticator and you’re ready.
According to Proton, account takeover attacks are becoming more and more common, costing people and businesses billions of dollars in losses. While SMS authentication is an option, it can leave you vulnerable to SIM-swapping attacks. Services like Proton Authenticator are much harder to crack since each code expires after just 30 seconds.
A major benefit is secure sync between devices, which makes sure you have smooth and seamless access to all your accounts, no matter which device you are using. The app also provides automatic backups, giving you peace of mind by keeping your codes safe in case anything goes wrong. You can use Proton Authenticator anytime and anywhere, even when you are offline, making it incredibly convenient.
If you are switching from another two-factor authentication app, you can easily import your data into Proton Authenticator, and you also have the option to export your information if needed, so you are never locked into a single app. For added security, the app includes an app lock feature that lets you protect it with biometrics or a PIN.
Proton Authenticator is open source, meaning you may review the source code yourself to verify that the app does exactly what it promises. It is also end-to-end encrypted, built by the same trusted team responsible for Proton Mail and Proton Pass. The app also has no ads or tracking, so you can trust that your privacy is fully respected.
Eamonn Maguire, Head of Account Security at Proton, said that he wanted to give users an alternative to what is out there. He stated, “We believe strong security should never come at the cost of your convenience or privacy. That’s why we’ve developed Proton Authenticator: to give users peace of mind that their 2FA codes are available wherever they need them, without relying on Google or Microsoft.”
You are going to get desktop apps, secure cross-device sync and backup, no ads or tracking, and the ability to import all your existing 2FA tokens in seconds. Proton Authenticator is available for free on mobile (iOS and Android) and desktop (macOS, Windows, and Linux). You can use it with or without a Proton account.
Proton Drive
Proton Drive is a cloud storage service that protects your files with high-end encryption. Usability could be improved, however.
