Do you remember how long you have been using the same password for Gmail? Are you confident that you are the only one who knows the password? If you say you are not bothered, you are seriously risking your data in Gmail. Someone who gets access to your password can also impersonate you by sending nasty emails to others.

Google knows this, and at least for those who want better security, it has introduced a two-step authentication process for Gmail accounts.

The new process works this way. Once you enter the username and password, Gmail will send a verification code to your mobile or landline. You will have to enter the verification code in the space provided. Only then will you be able to log into your email account.

How do you set up the two-stage verification process? First you will have to go to the settings page and look for the ‘2-step verification' link under ‘Accounts and Import'. Click on the ‘Using 2-step verification' link. You will be asked to provide a phone number to which Gmail will send a code. You will have to enter the code in the slot.

Google also knows you have the habit of losing phones. So, you can set up a back-up phone too. The same process is followed here, except that you have to provide the number of another phone — it could be yours or your friend's. What if your friend loses her phone? (After all, she is your friend). Google know this too. So, it has thoughtfully provided a second back-up option. Once you verify the number, the next screen goes to the second back-up option.

This is a set of ten codes that you have to print and keep in your wallet. If the verification and the first back-up don't work, you can use this option. Each code can be used only once, after which you will have to generate fresh codes.

If you log into your Gmail account several times a day and feel it is too cumbersome to ask for verification codes every time, you can set it up to remember the code for 30 days and relax.

You must keep in mind that the two-step verification will disable your passwords for all other devices and applications that access Gmail, such as your POP account or Blackberry.

You will have to generate a unique password for each device or application. If you think this is too much, relax. Gmail itself generates the unique password after you mention the application or device for which you need it. And you have to do it only once.

If you think it is too much of a bother, you can stick to your old password verification method.

But having a little extra security always helps, especially when it concerns important data.

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