Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an optional setting that allows for an additional account security layer. This is accomplished by using an app on your smartphone to generate a dynamic security code to log in with. Anyone trying to gain access to your account would have to know your login ID and password and have access to your device.
Enabling 2FA
Start by downloading any 2FA Google app to your device.
- Login to your account and select My Account in the top right, followed by Account settings.
- Select the Two-step verification tab.
- Create a nickname for your smartphone, then click Add device.
- Open the authentication app on your phone and scan the QR Code.
Note: If you cannot scan the QR code, click the Problems with QR code? link and add the secret key that appears on the screen into your authentication app.
- Enter the 6-digit verification code displayed in your app and click Verify code to finish.
- Once 2FA is enabled, click Show backup codes and print or save these codes in a safe place.
Important: If you lose your phone or access to the authenticator app and cannot log in to your account, this will be the only way to disable 2FA.
Disabling 2FA
Login to your account and select My Account in the top right, followed by Account settings.
- Select the Two-step verification tab.
- Click the Disable button. You will no longer be prompted for the security code when signing in.
Logging into an account with 2FA enabled
If you have 2FA enabled on your account, you will be prompted to verify your login attempt when accessing your account.
- Enter your Login ID and Password, and press Login.
- Enter the 6-digit security code shown in your authentication app and click Login.
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