Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your Eternal Vault account by requiring both your password and a time-based code from your authenticator app when you sign in. This makes it much harder for unauthorized users to access your account, even if they know your password.

What You’ll Need

Before enabling 2FA, make sure you have:

• An authenticator app installed on your phone or device. Popular options include:

  • Google Authenticator (iOS/Android)
  • Microsoft Authenticator (iOS/Android)
  • Authy (iOS/Android/Desktop)
  • 1Password (with TOTP support)
  • Bitwarden (with TOTP support)

• Access to your Eternal Vault account - you’ll need to be logged in to enable 2FA

How to Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Step 1: Navigate to Your Profile

Sign in to your Eternal Vault account and click on your profile picture in the top right corner. Select Profile from the dropdown menu.

Step 2: Find the Two Factor Authentication Section

Scroll down to the Two Factor Authentication section on your profile page. You’ll see a card titled “Two-Factor Authentication” with information about the current status of 2FA on your account.

Step 3: Click “Enable Two-Factor Authentication”

Click the Enable Two-Factor Authentication button to start the setup wizard. This will open a dialog that guides you through the setup process.

Step 4: Read the Introduction

The setup wizard will explain what 2FA is and how it works. Read through the information and click Continue when you’re ready to proceed.

Step 5: Scan the QR Code

Open your authenticator app and scan the QR code displayed on the screen. Most authenticator apps have a ”+” or “Add Account” button that allows you to scan QR codes.

Can’t scan the code? You can manually enter the setup key shown below the QR code into your authenticator app instead.

Once you’ve scanned the code or entered the setup key, your authenticator app will start generating 6-digit codes for your Eternal Vault account. Click I’ve added it to my app to proceed to verification.

Step 6: Verify Your Code

Enter the 6-digit code currently displayed in your authenticator app to verify that everything is set up correctly. The code changes every 30 seconds, so make sure to enter it while it’s still valid.

If the code is correct, you’ll proceed to the final step. If it’s incorrect, double-check that:

• You’re entering the code from the correct account in your authenticator app
• The time on your device is synchronized correctly
• The code hasn’t expired (wait for a new code and try again)

Step 7: Save Your Backup Codes

This is the most important step! You’ll be shown a set of backup codes that can be used to access your account if you lose access to your authenticator app.

Important: Each backup code can only be used once. Store these codes in a safe place, such as:

• A password manager
• A secure note in your Eternal Vault
• A physical safe or lockbox
• Another trusted location separate from your authenticator app

You can:

• Copy all codes to paste them into a secure document
• Download as text file to save them on your computer
• Print them to keep a physical copy

Once you’ve saved your backup codes, click Complete Setup to finish enabling 2FA on your account.

Signing In with Two-Factor Authentication

Once 2FA is enabled, your sign-in process will change slightly:

1. Enter your email and password as usual
2. Enter the 6-digit code from your authenticator app on the verification screen
3. Access your vault - you’re now signed in with enhanced security!

The verification code changes every 30 seconds, so enter it while it’s still valid. If a code expires, simply wait for the next one to appear.

Using Backup Codes

If you lose access to your authenticator app (lost phone, new device, etc.), you can use a backup code instead:

1. On the 2FA verification screen during login, click Use backup code
2. Enter one of your saved backup codes
3. Sign in to your account

Remember: Each backup code works only once. After using a code, it becomes invalid.

Managing Your 2FA Settings

Regenerate Backup Codes

If you’ve used some backup codes or want to generate fresh ones:

1. Go to your Profile page
2. Scroll to the Two Factor Authentication section
3. Click Regenerate Backup Codes
4. Enter your authenticator code to verify
5. Save your new backup codes

Important: Regenerating backup codes invalidates all previous codes. Make sure to save the new ones securely.

Disable Two-Factor Authentication

If you need to disable 2FA:

1. Go to your Profile page
2. Scroll to the Two Factor Authentication section
3. Click Disable 2FA
4. Enter your authenticator code to confirm
5. 2FA will be removed from your account

Note: Disabling 2FA makes your account less secure. We recommend keeping it enabled for maximum protection.

Troubleshooting

My authenticator codes aren’t working

Time synchronization issues are the most common cause. Make sure:

• Your device’s time is set to automatic/network time
• Your device’s time zone is correct
• Try waiting for a new code and entering it immediately

I lost my authenticator app and don’t have backup codes

If you’ve lost access to both your authenticator app and backup codes:

1. Contact our support team at [email protected]
2. We’ll need to verify your identity before removing 2FA from your account
3. This process may take 24-48 hours for security reasons

I’m getting a new phone

Before switching phones:

1. Set up your authenticator app on the new device
2. Scan the QR code or enter the setup key from your profile
3. Verify it works on the new device before removing it from the old one

Or: Use backup codes to sign in on your new device, then disable and re-enable 2FA with your new phone.

Getting Help

If you encounter any issues with two-factor authentication or have questions:

• Email us: [email protected]
• Visit our support page: eternalvault.app/contact
• Check our FAQ: eternalvault.app/faq

We’re here to help you secure your digital legacy!