Fortnite encourages gamers to utilize two-factor authentication by offering a free dance

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It only takes a few minutes of Google searching to see that account security for basically anything is in a weird place right now. Every day, something new is being hacked or breached, and while sometimes those things are out of our hands, it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be taking some responsibility for ourselves in how we secure our accounts. But, because people are people, sometimes the threat of having all of your data stolen isn’t enough, sometimes you need a carrot on a stick.

Such is the case with the hit game Fortnite and developer Epic Games’ push to make players utilize two-factor authentication. As someone who used to get nightly emails about breaches to my Epic Games account, two-factor was one of the first things I implemented when I started playing, but for those that are younger or do not understand the importance, it can seem like more of a hassle than anything.

Now, gamers can get a free in-game dance, the Boogie Down dance, just for setting up the extra security measure. And, it’s already working:

Son: Do you know what two-factor authentication is?
Me: Uh, yeah?
Son: I get a free dance on @Fortnitegame if I enable two factor. Can we do that?

Incentives matter.

— Dennis (@DennisF) August 23, 2018

Of course, Fortnite isn’t the first game to do this, World of Warcraft players probably remember when Blizzard added ways to get special mounts and more bag space for setting up 2FA, but this is Fortnite in 2018, where even your mom and pastor know about the game.

Still playing Fortnite? Make sure to check out the latest changes and patches with version v5.30.

What do you think about incentivizing two-factor authentication? Is this a smart move from Epic Games? Let us know in the comments.

For more gaming news and reviews, make sure to check out:

• Rocket League is adding ‘Clubs’ and changing how progression works
• Here are the best indie titles money can buy right now for the Nintendo Switch
• You may soon be able to rent an Xbox One directly from Microsoft

Josiah Motley

Former KnowTechie editor.