Google bumps up Gmail Security for Logins

Google announced on their blogsite optional implementation of a two-factor authentication system.  If you choose to use the system, you will configure Gmail to call or SMS text message a numerical code to your telephone number, which must be entered along with your password to gain access to your mail.  You can authorize the local computer to remember the authorization code for 30 days, or for greater security, enter a newly generated code at each login.

Even if some unauthorized person were to obtain your login and password to your Gmail account, they would not be able to send or receive emails with the account unless they also had stolen your phone.

If you do not use a cell phone, or have to pay for every text message and set the two-factor authentication to your home land line, you will only be able to access Gmail from home.

Google will have you configure a back-up phone number in case you lose your primary phone.  You will also be able to print a recovery code when setting up two-factor authentication.

If you use a program other than a web browser to access your gmail (such as Thunderbird, Outlook or a smartphone app), you will have to set up an application-specific code, as the application has no capability to ask for the generated code after login.