What is Google Authenticator and 2FA?

Two-factor authentication, often called 2FA or two-step verification, adds an extra layer of security to your account. Instead of signing in with only your password, you also confirm your identity with a temporary code. Once it is set up, the app generates a time-based, one-time verification code that changes regularly. Customers enter this code after their password to confirm their identity when signing in.

How to obtain Google Authenticator

Customers can obtain Google Authenticator by downloading it to their mobile device from the official app store. The app is available for Android and Apple devices, and it is free to download.

For Android devices

1. Open the Google Play Store on the Android device.
2. In the search bar, type Google Authenticator.
3. Review the app details carefully and confirm it is the official app from Google.
4. Tap Install.
5. Wait for the installation to finish, then tap Open.

For Apple devices

1. Open the App Store on the iPhone or iPad.
2. Search for Google Authenticator.
3. Confirm the app is the official version from Google before downloading.
4. Tap Get and complete any required verification such as Face ID, Touch ID, or password entry.
5. Once the app finishes installing, tap Open.
6. If the app requests camera access, allow it so the customer can scan QR codes during setup.

How to set up Google Authenticator

After the app is installed, the next step is to set it up using either the authentication key or by scanning the QR code provided.

Setting Up Google Authenticator Using the Authentication Key 

Step 1 - Download and install Google Authenticator from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Step 2 - In the bottom-right corner of the app, tap the Add (+) button or select Add Code on the screen.

Step 3 - Select Enter a setup key.

Step 4 - Enter the code details.

• Enter your preferred account name in the Code Name field (for example: Liberty Online Portal).
• Enter your key, which is the alphanumeric Authenticator Key provided in your email.
• For Type of key, select Time-based.
• Select Add to complete the setup.

Note: You should see your authenticator once it has been added

Setting Up Google Authenticator Using the QR Code

Step 1 - Download and install Google Authenticator from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Step 2 - In the bottom-right corner of the app, tap the Add (+) button or select Add Code on the screen.

Step 3 - Select Scan a QR Code, then scan the QR code in the welcome email you received with your login credentials.

When Scanning a QR Code

• Point the camera at the QR code. Make sure the QR code is fully visible and centred on the screen.
• Keep the phone steady and maintain a reasonable distance so the camera can focus clearly on the QR code.

Step 4 - The Authenticator window should appear on the screen once the QR code is recognized. There is no need to manually enter the code details.

How to Delete or Remove Google Authenticator

Step 1 - Open the Google Authenticator app on your phone.

Step 2 - Swipe left on the authenticator.

Step 3 - Select the Trash Bin icon to delete the existing authenticator.

Tip: The verification code usually changes about every 30 seconds. If the code expires before you finish, simply enter the new code that appears.