2-factor authentication (2FA) FAQ

What is 2FA?

2-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a layer of security in addition to your email address and password. When you have 2FA enabled for your account, you will need to provide your password and your 2FA code when signing into your Bitbuy account through your browser.

While there are different types of 2FA available, Bitbuy currently uses the Time-Based One Time Password (TOTP) method. TOTP is a temporary passcode generated by an algorithm which is used to authenticate access to your account.

How do I enable 2FA on my account?

Enabling 2FA gives your account an additional layer of protection, above and beyond just your password. Our recommended 2FA provider is the Google Authenticator app, but you can use any reputable 2FA app with your Bitbuy account.

You'll first need to install the authenticator app of your choice - Google Authenticator, Twilio Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator. You can find these apps in the App Store (iOS) and the Google Play Store (Android).

Then follow the below instructions for the app you've downloaded.

The status for 2-step verification (2FA) on your Bitbuy account should then display as 'On'.

Once you enable 2FA, you will be asked to input a randomly generated 6-digit code from your authenticator app in addition to your password, each time you log in.

Enabling Google Authenticator 2FA

To activate Google 2FA, first install the Google Authenticator app on your mobile device. You can find this app in the App Store (iOS) and the Google Play Store (Android).

Once downloaded, follow these general in-app instructions to set-up new 2FA:

Log into your Bitbuy account on your mobile app or the desktop website.
- If you're on the app, go to More > Settings and tap '2-step verification'.
- If you're on the website, navigate to 'Settings' and then click '2-step verification' in the security section.
In the Google 2FA app, click the + button in the bottom right of the screen. Choose "Scan a QR code" if you would like to scan the barcode. Choose "Enter a setup key" if you would like to copy and paste the long-form code instead.
You should see a 6-digit code on the next page when done successfully. Take this code and enter it where prompted before the timer runs out, otherwise, use the next 6-digit code.

Enabling Twilio Authy 2FA

To activate Twilio Authy 2FA, first install the Authenticator app on your device. Follow this link to download it from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store.

Once downloaded, follow these general in-app instructions to set up 2FA:

Log into your Bitbuy account on your mobile app or the desktop website.
- If you're on the app, go to More > Settings and tap '2-step verification'.
- If you're on the website, navigate to 'Settings' and then click '2-step verification' in the security section.
Open the Authy app. Create an account or login using your phone number.
Click the + button in the centre of the screen. Choose between "Scan QR Code" (recommended) or "Enter Code Manually" to input the long-form code.
You should see a 6-digit code on the next page when done successfully. Take this code and enter it where prompted before the timer runs out, otherwise use the next 6-digit code.

Enabling Microsoft Authenticator 2FA

To activate Microsoft Authenticator 2FA, first install the Authenticator app on your mobile device. Follow this link to download from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store.

Once downloaded, follow these general in-app instructions to set up 2FA:

Log into your Bitbuy account on your mobile app or the website.
- If you're on the app, go to More > Settings and tap '2-step verification.
- If you're on the website, navigate to 'Settings' and then click '2-step verification' in the security section.
Open the Microsoft Authenticator app. Select "Add Account" in the centre of the screen
When asked what kind of account you are adding, select "Other account."
Use your app to scan the QR code generated in your Bitbuy account.
You should see a 6-digit code on the next page when done successfully. Take this code and enter it where prompted before the timer runs out, otherwise, use the next 6-digit code.

How do I disable 2FA on my account?

The steps taken to disable 2FA on your account differ based on whether you are able to log in or not:

I can log in -- Navigate to the Settings and select ‘Turn off’ next to 2-step verification. You will see a warning message informing you that disabling 2FA will result in a 7-day withdrawal wait period as a security precaution. Click ‘Continue’ and enter the 6-digit code from your Authenticator app once again to disable 2FA.
I can’t log in -- Please contact our Support team. Be prepared to be asked to verify your identity in order to confirm that the account holder is making the request.

Please note that disabling 2FA will result in a temporary 7-day wait period on withdrawals. This is an automated security measure. You can contact our Support Team to shorten this wait period if you wish to have it removed before it is set to expire.

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