Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your account. Even if someone learns your password, they won’t be able to access your account without the second factor.
What is Two-Factor Authentication?
Two-factor authentication requires two things to log in:
Something you know - Your password
Something you have - A code from your authenticator app
This means that even if your password is compromised, your account remains protected.
Setting Up Two-Factor Authentication
Step 1: Access Security Settings
Click your avatar in the bottom-left corner of the sidebar
Select Profile from the menu
Click on the Security tab
Step 2: Enable 2FA
Find the two-factor authentication section
Click Enable or Set Up
A QR code will appear on screen
Step 3: Scan the QR Code
Using your authenticator app:
Open your authenticator app (see recommendations below)
Tap the option to add a new account
Scan the QR code displayed in Dear
The app will start generating 6-digit codes
Step 4: Verify Setup
Enter the current 6-digit code from your authenticator app
Click Verify or Confirm
Two-factor authentication is now active
Step 5: Save Recovery Codes
After enabling 2FA, you’ll receive recovery codes:
Save these codes immediately - They’re only shown once
Store them somewhere safe (password manager, printed copy, secure note)
Each code can only be used once
These codes let you access your account if you lose your phone
Recommended Authenticator Apps
Any TOTP (Time-based One-Time Password) authenticator will work. Popular options include:
App | Platform | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Google Authenticator | iOS, Android | Simple and widely used |
Microsoft Authenticator | iOS, Android | Includes backup features |
Authy | iOS, Android, Desktop | Syncs across devices |
1Password | iOS, Android, Desktop | Built into the password manager |
Logging In with 2FA
Once enabled, logging in requires an extra step:
Enter your email and password as usual
You’ll be prompted for your 2FA code
Open your authenticator app
Enter the current 6-digit code
Click Verify to complete login
The code changes every 30 seconds, so enter the current one displayed.
Using Recovery Codes
If you can’t access your authenticator app:
On the 2FA prompt, look for Use recovery code option
Enter one of your saved recovery codes
You’ll be logged in
Important: Each recovery code works only once. After using a code, consider generating new ones from your security settings.
Disabling Two-Factor Authentication
To turn off 2FA:
Go to your Profile > Security tab
Find the two-factor authentication section
Click Disable
Confirm your decision
Your account will return to password-only authentication.
Lost Phone or Authenticator
If you’ve lost access to your authenticator app:
Use a recovery code - If you saved them, use one to log in
Contact support - If you don’t have recovery codes, reach out for help
This is why saving recovery codes is so important when you first enable 2FA.
Best Practices
Save your recovery codes - Store them securely outside your phone
Use a reputable authenticator app - Stick to well-known, trusted apps
Keep your phone secure - Use a screen lock on your device
Consider backup options - Some apps like Authy offer cloud backup
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