Google is set to replace its SMS-based two-factor authentication method with QR codes, a move aimed at reducing fraud and spam, while improving the overall security of Gmail accounts. According to a Forbes report, the change will roll out over the next few months, marking a significant shift in the company's approach to account verification.

The current SMS-based system, which sends a six-digit authentication code to users' mobile devices, has been criticized for its security risks. Criminals can trick or force users into sharing the code, and users may not have immediate access to the device receiving the codes. Moreover, the system is dependent on each carrier's security practices, which can be vulnerable to fraudsters.

Google's decision to adopt QR codes as an alternative is driven by the need to mitigate these risks. By presenting a QR code that users can scan using their smartphone cameras, the company aims to eliminate the risk of users being tricked into sharing codes. This approach also takes security risks introduced by phone carriers, including unwanted SIM swapping, out of the equation.

The move is also seen as a response to a recent scam called traffic pumping or toll fraud, where fraudsters try to get online service providers to originate large numbers of SMS messages to numbers they control, thereby getting paid every time one of these messages is delivered. By switching to QR codes, Google can avoid falling prey to this type of fraud.

Google's decision to ditch SMS-based authentication is a significant step towards enhancing the security of its Gmail platform. With the rise of online fraud and spam, the company is taking proactive measures to protect its users' accounts and data. This move is likely to be welcomed by security experts and users alike, who have been advocating for more robust authentication methods.

The implications of this change are far-reaching, and could potentially influence the broader tech industry. As online security threats continue to evolve, companies like Google are being forced to rethink their approach to authentication and verification. The adoption of QR codes as a secure alternative could pave the way for other companies to follow suit, leading to a more secure online ecosystem.

In conclusion, Google's decision to replace SMS-based authentication with QR codes is a significant step towards improving the security of its Gmail platform. By mitigating the risks associated with SMS-based authentication, the company is taking a proactive approach to protecting its users' accounts and data. As the tech industry continues to grapple with online security threats, this move could have far-reaching implications for the future of authentication and verification.