Google now asks for fingerprint or PIN when approving sign-ins

Google

Google has made a small but important change to its two-factor authentication (2FA) process. Now, when you approve a sign-in request using Google Prompt, you will also have to use your fingerprint, face unlock, or PIN before it goes through.

Before this update, when you tried logging into your Google account from a new device, you would get a prompt on your phone asking, “Are you trying to sign in?” Tapping “Yes, it’s me” was enough to approve it. But with this new update, there’s an extra step—you’ll need to confirm your identity again with your phone’s screen lock.

This change is rolling out with Google Play services version 25.02.34 on Android. For iPhone users, it will work through the Google app or Gmail. The new verification step shows up as a small pop-up on the screen, asking you to unlock your phone, while the original sign-in details stay visible in the background.

The goal is to add an extra layer of security in case someone gets access to your unlocked phone. Even if they see the Google Prompt, they won’t be able to approve the login without your fingerprint or PIN. Google did something similar last year with Google Wallet, requiring extra verification before making payments.

While this might feel like an extra step, it’s quick and helps keep your account safer. If you don’t like using Google Prompt, you can still choose other 2FA options, like passkeys, security keys, or authenticator apps.

This update is rolling out gradually, so if you don’t see it yet, it should appear soon!