Google has just started rolling out a great new feature for all of its users, a two-step verification process for all accounts. The feature will be opt-in, but, if enabled, it will require users to enter not only their username and password but also a pass code generated by a mobile app or received on their phones via a call or SMS.

"As we announced to our Google Apps customers a few months ago, we've developed an advanced opt-in security feature called 2-step verification that makes your Google Account significantly more secure by helping to verify that you're the real owner of your account," Nishit Shah, product manager for Google Security, wrote.

"Now it's time to offer the same advanced protection to all of our users. 2-step verification requires two independent factors for authentication, much like you might see on your banking website: your password, plus a code obtained using your phone," he announced.