Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. What's a verification code, and why are they so important? Six-digit verification codes are a form of two-factor authentication, a ...

Update, Feb. 26, 2025: This story, originally published Feb. 23, now includes additional commentary regarding the potential security implications of the decision to deprecate SMS from the Gmail ...

, a process that helps keep your important online accounts secure. For example, you might get a text message or email with a six-digit code that you must enter when you log into your bank account.