Email verification is the process of confirming that an email address is valid and owned by the person claiming it. This is usually done by sending a verification link or code to the email address that must be clicked or entered before the account can be accessed. Email verification provides several important security benefits:
Prevents Fake Accounts
Without email verification, anyone could sign up for an account using a fake or disposable email address. This allows people to create fraudulent accounts for malicious purposes like spamming, phishing scams, disseminating misinformation, and other abusive behaviors. Requiring email confirmation ensures accounts are created with valid email addresses traceable to real people.
Blocks Unauthorized Access
Verifying emails protects against unauthorized logins by ensuring the person accessing the account owns the email associated with it. If an account is compromised, the real owner controls the email and can regain access through verification. This adds an extra layer of security beyond just a password.
Enhances Account Recovery
If a user forgets their password, email verification provides a way to securely reset it by sending a password reset link. Without a verified email, it would be impossible to confirm the person requesting the reset is the legitimate account holder. Email verification creates a recovery mechanism that enhances security.
Confirms Users are Human
Spammers and bots often use disposable emails when bulk creating accounts for nefarious activities. Requiring email verification makes this difficult, as human review is needed to complete the validation process. This adds friction that discourages bulk account creation by automated bots and enforces that real humans are behind accounts.
How Does Email Verification Work?
There are several methods services can use to implement email verification:
Send Verification Link
The most common approach is to send an email with a unique link to the provided address after signup. The user must click the verification link to confirm ownership of the email. This proves access and activates the account.
Verification Code
Rather than a clickable link, the verification email contains a code the user must manually enter on the website. This has the same effect of proving email ownership.
Two-Step Verification
Some services combine both methods, sending a link to visit and then requiring entry of a code displayed on the verification page. This provides extra security with two layers of email validation.
Documentation Submission
For the highest security, a service may require submitting government ID or other documentation proving legal ownership of the email address. This severely limits fraudulent accounts.
Why is Email Verification Important for Security?
Email verification is a critical security practice for a few key reasons:
Prevents Abuse from Fake Accounts
The main benefit is preventing abuse from fake accounts, like sending spam and scams. Verification blocks bulk account creation and raises the difficulty for abusers.
Allows Account Recovery
It provides a recovery mechanism for users who forget their password or get locked out. Account recovery depends on email validation to ensure account security.
Stops Unauthorized Logins
By verifying the email tied to an account, it prevents unauthorized logins even if the password is compromised. The rightful owner controls the email address.
Builds User Trust
Users feel more secure providing emails to services that validate them compared to those that do not. Email verification indicates a service values security.
What Information is Needed for Email Verification?
To complete email verification, users need to provide:
Valid Email Address
An actual, current email account they control access to. Disposable and fake emails will fail the verification process.
Access to Email Inbox
The ability to receive and read the verification email sent to them. This includes clicking links or copying codes.
Device for Verification Steps
A phone, computer or device that can click the verification link or input the code into the website. Access is needed to complete verification.
Patience for Process
It may take a few minutes to receive the verification email, reach the inbox, and complete the steps. Users should be patient as this enhances security.
Pros of Email Verification
The main advantages of requiring email verification include:
- Blocks fake and disposable email accounts
- Prevents spam and abuse from unauthorized users
- Enables secure password reset for account holders
- Stops unauthorized access even with compromised passwords
- Builds user trust and perception of security
- Friction helps deter bots and automated account creation
- Links accounts to real world identities
Cons of Email Verification
Potential downsides of mandating email verification include:
- Additional steps create more friction for users during signup
- Potential for users to abandon signups if process is too complex
- May deter users who wish to remain anonymous or use pseudonyms
- Human review of documentation raises privacy concerns for some users
- Email verification emails could get caught in spam or fail to deliver
- Locks out users if they lose access to their email accounts
Best Practices for Email Verification
To implement effective email verification that maximizes security, services should follow these best practices:
- Use HTTPS encryption for all email verification links and pages
- Links should expire quickly, within hours or less
- Provide clear instructions in the verification email
- Send a confirmation email upon successful verification
- Allow multiple resends of verification emails if not received
- Have an alternate verification process for users that lose email access
- Let users proactively change email on file if account is compromised
Email Verification vs. Two-Factor Authentication
Email verification helps validate identity during account creation and recovery. Two-factor authentication (2FA) enhances security at time of login.
Email Verification
- Performed once during signup or when changing emails
- Confirms account ownership of email address
- Gatekeeper for account creation
- Enables trusted account recovery process
Two-Factor Authentication
- Performed at every login attempt
- Requires both password and changing verification code
- Prevents unauthorized access in real-time
- Codes sent to email, SMS texts, or authentication apps
Email verification establishes identity, while 2FA strengthens active session security. Services should use both for comprehensive protection.
Conclusion
Email verification provides important security benefits for both users and services. By validating real email ownership, it prevents fake account creation, allows for trusted account recovery, and gives users confidence in service security. Minimal downsides like increased friction are outweighed by the substantial upsides. Following best practices for clear communication, encrypted links, and alternate verification methods can maximize effectiveness. Overall, email verification is a crucial identity and access management practice that improves security.