Mandatory Two Factor Authentication Coming To Ring Devices - Olmec Skip to main content

Mandatory Two Factor Authentication Coming To Ring Devices

By February 29, 2020May 9th, 2022Technology News

Finally, a smart device manufacturer is taking device security seriously, and that’s great news indeed.

You may recall reading about a serious issue with Ring security systems recently.

The news was that the security issue allowed hackers to commandeer user systems and spy on them.

The hackers were sending the users messages and making disturbing threats about watching them, effectively turning their own systems against them.

In response to those events, Ring has taken the bold step of outright requiring all users to make use of two factor authentication, or 2FA for short. Effective immediately, you will not be able to log into your Ring account without 2FA.

Ring’s President, Leila Rouhi, had this to say about the change:

While we already offered two-factor authentication to customers, starting today we’re making a second layer of verification mandatory for all users when they log into their Ring accounts. This added authentication helps prevent unauthorized users from gaining access to your Ring account, even if they have your username and password.”

Ring’s implementation of 2FA relies on emailing or texting users a six-digit code which must be entered in addition to the standard username and password.

In addition to that, Ring also announced that they’re giving users increased control over the info they share with third-party service providers and will have the ability to opt out of personalized advertising.

Rouhi continues:

Beginning immediately, we are temporarily pausing the use of most third-party analytics services in the Ring apps and website while we work on providing users with more ability to opt-out in Control Center. In early spring, we will provide you with additional options to limit sharing information with third-party service providers.”

These are significant steps that put Ring miles ahead of just about every other smart device manufacturer in business today. While we have a few issues with their implementation, in general, these are good moves that are long overdue. Kudos to Ring for getting serious about device security!

Jason Manteiga

Jason J. Manteiga, Vice President of Olmec Systems, has been part of the company for over the past 20 years. He believes that having a great work environment and supportive team, is the ultimate key to success. Since being in the IT realm for over 25 years, Jason, along with Olmec Systems, has been on the Inc. 5000 “List of America’s Fastest Growing Private Companies” and Channel Futures MSP 501 “Top Managed Service Providers in North America,” along with other awards and nominations. Jason earned his Bachelor Degree in Information Systems from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. He also holds certifications in Microsoft MCSE, VMWare VCP, and Cisco CCNA. In his spare time, Jason is a contributor for The Center for Social & Legal Research (Privacy Exchange) and a member of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce. His hobbies include cycling and kayaking. He currently lives in New Jersey with his wife, two daughters and son.