What happens if your phone is lost, stolen, or damaged?
Two-factor authentication is fantastic, but what happens if your phone is lost, stolen, or damaged? Google Authenticator, which Mobile Guardian uses for Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) offer backup methods to ensure you don't get locked out.
It's crucial to prepare for this before it's too late.
1. Save Your Backup Codes (Crucial Step)
When enabling 2FA you will be provided with a one-time-use backup code or recovery code. This code is vital if you cannot access your authenticator application.
- Save: Save the code immediately after enabling 2FA
- Print out: Print the code and store in a secure physical location.
- Do NOT store it on your phone: If your device gets compromised, so will your account.
2. Set Up Alternative Recovery Methods
You can link additional recovery options
- Backup email address: Ensure you can access this email account even if your main account is blocked.
- Backup phone number: You can use a trusted family member's number or your alternate contact number.
3. Authenticator application backup features
It is important to familiarise yourself with your authenticator application backup feature. New Google Authenticator versions offer you to transfer accounts to new devices or sync them. However, your backup code would be the primary recovery method.
In Case of Emergency:
If you have lost your phone and need to access your Mobile Guardian account, which has 2FA enabled.
- Retrieve your backup codes.
- When prompted for your 2FA code during login, look for an option like "Try another way" or "Use a backup code."
- Enter one of your unused backup codes. Each code can only be used once.
- Once logged in, immediately disable 2FA from your profile settings (where possible) and then re-enable it on your new device. This will generate a fresh set of codes and link 2FA to your new phone.
By following the above, you can ensure uninterrupted access to your Mobile Guardian profile, keeping your management of devices seamless and secure!
Please let us know if you found this article useful.
Thanks for reading! 🙂