Twilio's Authy apps for computers with operating systems Windows, macOS and Linux will be discontinued in August 2024, with the company recommending that users switch to a mobile version of the dual verification app (2FA).
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Authy is an authentication application that allows users to set up double verification (2FA) for their online accounts, generating a unique verification code every 30 seconds to facilitate authorized Accessed at. The popularity of the application is due to its ability to create offline codes, synchronize data across various Devices, to offer an option for encrypted backups in the cloud for account recovery in case of device loss and strong encryption of credentials for security.
Its provider, Twilio, has warned that it plans to withdraw the desktop app this summer in order to focus on developing the fields with higher demand and to make the most of its available resources.
Twilio is going through a period of reorganization, and the company announced the resignation of the co-founder of the Jeff Lawson as CEO and board member, due to slowing sales growth and pressure from investors.
Existing users of the Authy app on PC "can go immediately" in the use of the application iOS ή Google, from the Apple App Store and Google Play respectively. Twilio says that the iOS app will remain available for download on Apple M1/M2 computers, so macOS users with Apple Silicon hardware will not be affected for now.
Apps and platforms that rely on Authy's API to authenticate their users must inform their customers of this change by August 2024.
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Twilio reports alternative desktop applications computers for users who cannot or prefer not to use a mobile device for two-factor authentication (2FA), with proposals including 1Password, KeepassXC, Authenticator, Step Two and Secrets.
Note that the Authy application does not have an export function, so those switching to another 2FA application should first disable Authy from any platform used and then reconfigure the 2FA in the new application.
Users are warned not to delete their Authy tokens before disabling 2FA on their accounts first, as this may result in being locked out of their accounts.
Depending on the action taken by the affected users, it is vital that the steps of the manual process are taken into account and executed with care, as a single mistake can lead to the loss of access to accounts.
The Twilio Authy Desktop app offers two-factor authentication (2FA) capabilities, providing an extra layer of security for users' accounts. The app supports both SMS and push authentication, allowing users to choose the most convenient way.
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In addition, the Twilio Authy Desktop app includes the ability to restore accounts, allowing users to regain access even if they lose their device. Finally, the app offers PIN protection for additional Security, allowing users to set a PIN code to access the application.
Source: bleepingcomputer
