Paypal security key

[Udai Hussien]

Okay, I am surprised more people don't use the paypal security key. It's a small little keychain, that when you press the button on it, it will generate a 6 digit number. the digits change ever 8 seconds, so your log in will be your password, PLUS the current 6 digit code. If someone steals your password, they cannot get into your account unless they have the 6 digit code also. It costs $5 and trust me, it is worth every penny. I had my paypal hacked once, they drained my bank account. Now with the key, no one has gotten into my account, nor do they even try with brute force crackers, because the code changes every 8 seconds.

you can read the FAQ's here (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#whySecurityKey). you can thank me afterward. I really have NO IDEA why paypal dosent push these keys harder, or make them mandatory. Here is the FAQ's just copy and pasted.
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/126/399563655_12f5e72bae.jpg

Why should I use the PayPal Security Key?

There are 3 main reasons to use a security key:
It’s one of the most secure ways to log in to your PayPal account. The security key randomly generates security codes that are practically impossible to duplicate.
It’s easy to use. A fresh security code is just one button (or about 30 seconds) away.
It’s portable. Take extra security anywhere you go.Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
What exactly is a security key?

The security key gives you an extra layer of security when you log in to your PayPal account. It creates random security codes to use along with your regular username and password.
It’s like a combination lock for your account – designed to let you in and keep others out – except that the combination always changes. It comes in 2 types, each with different advantages:
Security key token: This version is an electronic device designed to be carried on a key ring. It generates a security code for you every 30 seconds.
Mobile phone security key: You can get temporary security codes on your mobile phone by text messages (also called SMS).Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
What do I need to use the mobile phone security key?

You’ll need a mobile phone and service that supports SMS text messaging. Contact your mobile provider to make sure your phone and services are set up for SMS, and to find out your provider’s standard text messaging charges.
Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
How do I use the security key token?

Log in to PayPal as you normally would. After you log in, you’ll see a field for the security code on the next page.
Press the button on the security key token to get a fresh code.
Enter the code to finish logging in.Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
How do I use the mobile security key?

Log in to PayPal as you normally would. After you log in, you’ll see the Send SMS button on the next page.
Click Send SMS and wait to get the text message with your code on your mobile phone.
Enter the code to finish logging in.Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
My text messages don’t always come through. Can I still log in without a code?

Yes. We’ll ask you some security verification questions that only you’ll know the answer to.
Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
Will it work with my computer?

Yes. The security key works with any computer operating system and web browser that can access the PayPal website.
Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
How much does it cost?

The mobile security key has no costs, except your mobile provider's standard text messaging rates. Check with your mobile provider for details.
The security key token is currently available for $5.
Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
Is the fee refundable?

No, but you pay the fee only once per security key token.
Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
Can I still log in to my PayPal account if I lose or break my token, or if I don’t have my mobile phone with me?

Yes. During login, we’ll ask you questions to help confirm your identity. When you answer them correctly, you’ll be able to log in.
Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
What if I lose my mobile phone or change the number?

Your security key service is tied to your mobile phone number, so if you’re keeping your old number but just getting a new phone, there’s no fee. If you’re getting a new number, you’ll have to register it for the mobile security key service. You’ll also have to log in to your PayPal account to deactivate your old mobile number and activate your new one.
Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
Can I order a replacement security key token?

Yes. You’ll need to pay the $5 fee again, though. If your PayPal Security Key isn’t working, contact PayPal Customer Service.
Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
Where should I keep my security key token?

Keep it with you so you can access your account wherever you go. It’s small and fits on a key ring. Don’t store it with your computer, though.
Back to top (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecurityKeyFAQ-outside#Top)
How do I deactivate my security key?

Log in to your PayPal account with your security key.
Click Profile at the top of the page.
Click PayPal Security Key.
Select the security key and click Deactivate.Your PayPal account remains secure, even if you decide to deactivate your security key.

[imsound65604]

I just got the sms text one thank you for bringing this to my attention.

[Udai Hussien]

yeah the SMS is new, I haven't tried that yet.

[PyroChixRock]

6 digits, that's it. WoW's key even uses more than that. :lol

Hey this is rad. I didn't even know paypal had one. Obviously I know they have them for WoW, though. God forbid my WoW account gets hacked. :rollin

(and no i don't use either, but I will get a paypal one)

[mer]

paypal also has a free debit card that's pretty sweet. i can take money out of there as soon as somebody puts it in (instead of waiting 3-5 days for it to transfer to my bank acct). it can be used at any bank machine or you can just spend with it like a card. it also sends email to my phone the second any transaction goes through. like, every time i use the card my phone gets an alert before the cashier can even hand me a slip to sign. it kicks much ass.

[CripSkillz]

i love my palpal debit,, i used to use it to hide money from the ol lady, now its just convient hehe ..

thx D i think ill key my phone

[THAT Guy]

Good call, I've been using the security keys since they first started offering them and couldn't imagine not having one. Dwaine's right, everyone should get one.

[Big Jay]

Dude thats sweet. Thanks for posting it up D.

[ALIEN!]

Gotta rep on that heads up for sure!

[kebira]

How does the Coin unit, for instance,link to the paypal system in order to know the next seemingly random number generated is linked to your account? It sounds good to have xtra security, but I can't get the idea of a crazy eight ball you shake for a new answer out of my head. Does each acct "own" a range of possible number sequences ? This is hurting my head.

[jr23]

does the key chain send or receive signals. Pushing these things for the man Dwain . I bet you work for the spooks or their internet equivalent. Swaying folks to carry the chip since they buck the implants you sneaky devil! Its crazy if the state tried to make use get a key chain license every one would shit egg rolls. But something like this with a few sponsors will have lines around the block.

[kebira]

Yea, that too. First this , now here in MA, the Govenor wants a chip in the inspection sticker to know how many miles we drive ... and where !

Where's that #*@!<?$ asteroid ! I'm ready.

[menty666]

we used to use the ones from RSA at work. They're more of an annoyance for the IT folks who have to replace them, but given in this case the user pays for them, I guess it's not that horrid.

If I actually used my paypal account frequently I'd be all over this.

I didn't know Patrick was trying to chip the stickers; I see some tinfoil entering my car soon :)

[Roger K]

Yeah, Gov wants to tax us per mile that we drive on Mass roads. Not good for me since I'm almost 20 miles from the grocery store or gas station.

The paypal key looks cool. The joke is on the poor hacker that gets into my account and finds cobwebs, though. (I'm getting the key anyway.)