Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

✨ NEW ✨ Secure your HandsHQ account with a second verification method

Michelle Kimbler avatar
Written by Michelle Kimbler
Updated over a week ago

Summary

As Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) becomes a common requirement for cyber security, HandsHQ now offers this option for all users.

HandsHQ 2FA works via any Authenticator App (it doesn't use your phone number).

You can enable it in Settings > Profile.

Who can use this feature?

🏘️ Available for all HandsHQ users on any plan*

🛠️ Needs to be enabled in your Profile Settings

🚧 *Users who already use enforced single sign-on (SSO) must enable it via their SSO provider

Covered in this article


How do I set up 2FA?

In order to set it up, you need to be logged in to your account.

In your account, head to:

  • Settings > Profile

  • Scroll down and click "Set up two-factor authentication"

You will be asked to scan a QR code.

You must do this via an authenticator app installed on your smartphone (rather than your camera app).

  • Open your Authenticator App, and select to add a new item

  • Scan the QR code displayed in your HandsHQ account (using the authenticator app)

  • Enter the 6-digit code from the app

You can use any Authenticator App you already have installed - or you can choose to install one from our list in the next section.

Can't see 2FA in your profile settings?

SSO users: if you are using the enforced SAML SSO feature (single sign-on), you won’t be able to use 2FA, because they are mutually exclusive.

You can choose to set up two-factor authentication directly with your SSO provider.


Using 2FA to log in to HandsHQ

Once set up, the next time you log into HandsHQ, you will be prompted to verify that it's you logging in.

You will be asked to enter the verification code from your authenticator app after entering your password.

Disabling 2FA

If you want to turn off two-factor authentication, go to:

  • Settings > Profile

  • Two-factor authentication > Turn off

  • Enter the 6-digit code from the app

2FA will then no longer be required to log in to your HandsHQ account.

What happens if I lose my device with the Authenticator App?

Please contact our support team via the chat below or email us at help@handshq.com.


What Authenticator App can I use?

We use an authenticator app instead of your phone number to set up 2FA.

If you don't already, you will need to install any authenticator app on your smartphone. We accept any app - there are many Authenticator apps available.

The most popular ones are:

Once you download the app, open it, click on +/add, scan the QR code on HandsHQ with your phone and enter a 6-digit number you see in the app.


Why should I set up two-factor authentication (2FA)?

All users on all accounts can set up two-factor authentication (2FA) to keep their HandsHQ accounts safe. This helps keep your account safe in case someone manages to get hold of your account password.

Once set up, you'll be asked to verify that it's really you logging in, adding an extra layer of security to your account.

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