Google announced an option that provides more security to their account holders. They intend to do so by providing what is known as a two-step verification process. Google accounts like Gmail, Picasa, and Google Docs can be set up to where you will be provided a second verification code via text messages, phone calls, or an app when you are ready to log in.

Passwords trend to be the weakest link in account security because frankly, we just aren't good at creating very strong passwords. We tend to think of passwords that are easy to remember, and thus, easy to crack by an ever growing population of hackers.

Security enhancements like this may be even more pertinent to persons and businesses who are utilizing a cloud based network service as their information isn't stored on hard drives.

Don't worry, your accounts won't be double protected unless you request the option through your account settings. You can even change the periodicity in which you are required to receive a new password to log in, allowing users to opt to have a new second verification code sent to them once a month if they wish.

This is a free security option offered to persons and businesses who don't want to deal with expensive and inconvenient hardware like key fobs to provide additional account protection and is worth looking into.