I’d like your expert advice. My old smartphone is about to kick the bucket, and I can’t wait to finally let go of the tiny depression rectangle for ever. How can I keep using OTP and 2FA services when on a dumb phone? I expect that with time I will manage to limit the use of services that require this kind of stuff, but can’t at the moment. I don’t use my smartphone for much, so I don’t expect to run into much trouble, but is there anything else I might be forgetting apart from authentication issues? I’ll speak to my bank to see what they offer besides 2FA and app - I’m sure they have something since it’s a bank for farmers and old rural folk.

Btw I have been enjoying my collapse lately, as so much over-engineered stuff just starts failing and encourages a retreat to more simple solutions. I’ll do my part by ditching the surveillance box.

  • kindnesskills@literature.cafeEnglish
    5·
    1 day ago

    In my country almost all (maybe actually all) 2FA services have the option to send a text/sms with a code, that would work for a dumb phone as well. Or via email to your computer. Do you have those options?

    I can do banking online without an app, but I want an app for local transport like buses and trains as that is cheaper than paying with card. Are you set to travel without a smart phone?

    Other things I use a smart phone for: calendar to remember peoples birthday by. Alarm clock. Photos of my pets being adorable, or injuries to show a doctor or insurance company. Video calls with the veterinarian (a phone is much easier to navigate than a webcam). Digital tickets for movies/shows/events/travel instead of needing a printer. Map and navigation.

    • schmorp@slrpnk.netOPMEnglish
      1·
      4 hours ago

      Thanks, very valuable input - all things I’ve been using a phone for at some point. The achieved slowdown might amount to more than I can handle atm, all considered, or at least it would have to be very well prepared.

      • kindnesskills@literature.cafeEnglish
        1·
        1 hour ago

        Perhaps you can find some sort of dumb smart phone, like for children, that maybe only allows a few apps so you can still have whatever you absolutely need but without mail, browser, etc that tracks and distracts you.

        Before making a decision maybe you can try setting up your current phone with a mode (check settings) to only allow clock/alarm, phone, and messaging and see how you manage.