Google Cloud Professional Cloud Security Engineer Practice Exam

If a user loses their second factor for 2-Step Verification, what is the best immediate action to take?

1. Temporarily disable their account

2. Generate a backup code in the Admin console

3. Reset their password

4. Contact Google Support

The correct answer is: Generate a backup code in the Admin console

When a user loses their second factor for 2-Step Verification, the most efficient immediate action is to generate a backup code in the Admin console. Backup codes serve as an alternative way for users to authenticate themselves when they cannot access their primary second factor. Each backup code is unique and can be used only once, ensuring that the user can regain access without needing to go through lengthy account recovery processes. Generating backup codes directly addresses the user's immediate need to authenticate without losing access to their account. It is crucial for maintaining a balance between security and user accessibility, as users may rely on backup codes in these situations. The other options might not be as effective in immediate situations: disabling the account would prevent the user from accessing their resources, resetting the password wouldn’t solve the problem of losing the second factor, and contacting Google Support could lead to delays that hinder quick access to the account.