Google Authenticator - Security Reduction

[loumalnati]

I finally got my Google Authenticator (GA) to work, but now I am wondering if this was a good idea...How is this protecting me ? If the phone never signs out of gmail then if my phone is stolen then anyone can my email, send email, etc. I do realize though that I could revoke the privileges ?

In addition since I have Google Authenticator as an app on my phone if somehow the thief got a hold of my primary password, they would also have access to the 2 step verification numbers..

I am trying to understand for my email that I get on my phone how does 2 step help...

 

[pinocytosis]

2step doesn't really help secure your phone. its more a security measure to prevent someone else from getting into your accounts just by knowing or figuring out your password.

If you're worried about losing your phone, at least put a security lock on it. password, pin, etc.

 

[koopakid08]

I finally got my Google Authenticator (GA) to work, but now I am wondering if this was a good idea...How is this protecting me ? If the phone never signs out of gmail then if my phone is stolen then anyone can my email, send email, etc. I do realize though that I could revoke the privileges ?

In addition since I have Google Authenticator as an app on my phone if somehow the thief got a hold of my primary password, they would also have access to the 2 step verification numbers..

I am trying to understand for my email that I get on my phone how does 2 step help...

That isn't the purpose of 2 step. 2 step is so that you need a physical device and a password to log into your Google services. This prevents remote hacking.

It isn't to protect your phone. That is what a password lock is for.