Two-factor authentication (2FA) has become an essential part of online security. It provides an extra layer of protection beyond just a password. With 2FA enabled, users need to provide two forms of identification to access an account. The most common forms are a password plus a one-time code generated by an authenticator app or sent via SMS. However, sometimes users run into issues with the verification code not working as expected. There are a few potential reasons why an authenticator app code may not be accepted.
Expired Code
Authenticator app codes are only valid for a short time, usually 30-60 seconds. If too much time has passed since the code was generated, it will no longer be valid. Users need to be sure to enter the code promptly after generating it. If the code has expired, simply generate a new one and try again.
Incorrect Time on Device
The authenticator codes are based on time-synced one-time passwords. So if the time set on your mobile device is inaccurate, it will generate the wrong code. Make sure your device’s clock is set properly and shows the correct current time. Consider enabling automatic time updates on your device if possible. Once the time is corrected, a newly generated code should work.
Wrong Authenticator App
Many services allow using various authenticator apps like Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator, etc. Be sure you are using the correct app that is linked to the account you are trying to access. Codes generated in one app won’t work for a different service or account. Check which authenticator app you should be using for that login.
Didn’t Scan Code Properly
When initially setting up 2FA, the account will provide a QR code that needs scanned with the authenticator app’s camera to link the account. If this scan was not completed or was done incorrectly, the app will not generate the proper codes. Try rescanning the QR code correctly, then any newly generated codes should work with the account.
Account Not Enabled for 2FA
If 2FA is not enabled and properly set up on the account you are trying to access, the authenticator app codes will not be accepted. First, double check that 2FA or “Two-step verification” is definitely enabled on the account. If not, complete the process of activating 2FA, scanning the QR code, then newly generated codes will function.
Wrong Type of 2FA Enabled
Some services allow using either authenticator apps or SMS text messages for the verification code. So it’s possible the account has SMS 2FA enabled instead of an authenticator app. Check the account’s security settings to see if SMS is enabled rather than an app like Google Authenticator. Then you would need to use the code sent to your mobile number.
Authenticator App Not Set Up Properly
When first enabling 2FA, the setup process can sometimes fail and not get completed fully. This can cause issues with generating the correct verification codes later. Try removing the account from the authenticator app entirely. Then go through the process again of scanning the QR code and adding the account back into the app. This should resync it properly so newly generated codes will work.
New Phone or Device
If you are setting up your authenticator app on a new phone or mobile device, it will not have the proper accounts linked and synced to generate valid codes. You will need to either re-scan the QR codes with the new device’s app or go through a process of transferring your accounts to the new device. Check the instructions for your specific authenticator app. Once it is set up properly, newly generated codes will work on that device.
Typo When Entering Code
Authenticator app codes are generated as 6-8 digit numbers. It’s easy to make a mistake when entering them, transposing numbers or entering one incorrectly. If your code is not working, slow down and double-check that you are accurately entering the exact code displayed on your authenticator app. A simple typo when rushing can cause it not to be accepted.
Caps Lock or Auto-Capitalization
The authenticator code needs to be entered exactly as displayed, including lowercase and uppercase letters. Some mobile keyboards enable auto-capitalization or caps lock, which can change the case of letters. Make sure caps lock is off and auto-capitalization disabled when entering your code. Then manually type the code exactly as shown on your authenticator app.
Corrupted Authenticator App
In rare cases, glitches with the authenticator app itself can cause issues generating proper codes. Try uninstalling and reinstalling the authenticator app, then going through the process of re-adding your accounts by scanning the QR codes. Also make sure you are running the latest version of the app, updating it if an update is available. This should resync the app properly with your accounts.
Using Backup Codes
Many services provide printable backup codes that can be used instead of the normal authenticator app code. Make sure you are not trying to enter a backup code in the regular code field. Backup codes have to be entered in the designated backup code field, while authenticator app codes go in the standard 2FA code field.
Account Locked for Too Many Attempts
If an incorrect verification code is entered too many times, the service will lock the account for a period of time. This is done for security reasons to prevent hackers from brute forcing access. Check if you can reset your password or unlock the account through email or other verified means of identity confirmation. The service will provide instructions on their process.
Reset 2FA Process Required
In some cases, if you no longer have access to your original authentication app or recovery codes, the only option is to go through the 2FA reset process. This usually involves confirming your identity through verification questions, alternate email, proof of ID, etc. Check the service’s site for more details on their 2FA reset procedure. Once reset, you can re-enable 2FA with a new authenticator app.
System or Server Issues
In rare instances, glitches on the service provider’s server side may prevent verification codes from being accepted properly. Check their site or status pages for any notifications of system issues currently being worked on. Trying again later once resolved usually allows codes to be entered successfully. A new code may need generated after some time has passed.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting an invalid authenticator app code just takes some patience and step-by-step diagnosis. In most cases, the problem ends up being something simple like an expired code, wrong time setting, or typo when entering the code. Checking the most common issues first can help identify the problem quickly. Make sure your authenticator app is properly set up and try generating a new fresh code. If still not working after trying the likely fixes, further steps like resetting 2FA may be required to get back into your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need an authenticator app for 2FA?
An authenticator app provides the second “factor” – something you have – in two-factor authentication. It generates time-based one-time codes needed along with your password to securely access accounts. This is more secure than relying on passwords alone.
How do I set up 2FA on my accounts?
The process varies slightly by service but usually involves:
- Go to account security settings
- Enable 2FA option
- Scan QR code with authenticator app
- Enter code generated by app
Once linked, the app will provide valid codes for that account when logging in.
What if I get a new phone?
When installing your authenticator app on a new device, you will need to configure it by scanning the QR codes again for each account or using the backup codes. This links the accounts to your new device.
How do I troubleshoot an invalid code?
Try generating a fresh code and double check for typos when entering it. Make sure the time is correct on your device and that you are using the right authenticator app for that account. If still not working, complete 2FA setup again or contact the service provider.
What if I lose my authenticator app or it stops working?
Use backup codes if you have them to access your account. Otherwise, go through the authenticator app recovery process offered by each service. This usually involves extra identity confirmation steps.
Can I use the same authenticator app for multiple accounts?
Yes, apps like Google Authenticator and Authy allow you to store multiple accounts within the same app. Just use the QR code scanning process for each account you want to add.
Is 2FA with an authenticator app more secure than SMS?
Yes, authenticator apps are considered more secure than SMS 2FA. Phone numbers can be more easily hijacked, while apps provide time-based dynamic codes not vulnerable to phishing.
Troubleshooting Tips
Here are some step-by-step tips for troubleshooting an invalid authenticator code:
- Generate a fresh code and double check entering it correctly
- Make sure your device time is set properly
- Confirm you are using the correct authenticator app for that account
- Try re-scanning the account QR code to re-sync
- Check if 2FA is definitely enabled on the account
- Try uninstalling and reinstalling the authenticator app
- Complete 2FA reset if available through account recovery options
- Contact service provider for further help if needed
Security Best Practices
To maximize security with two-factor authentication:
- Use it for important accounts whenever available
- Don’t use SMS codes if app codes are an option
- Print and safely store backup codes
- Don’t jailbreak/root your mobile device
- Keep your device OS and apps updated
- Use strong unique passwords everywhere
- Beware phishing schemes attempting to collect codes
Sample Troubleshooting Scenarios
Incorrect Time Causing Invalid Codes
John recently switched time zones but forgot to update the time on his old smartphone he uses for 2FA codes. He tries logging into his email but keeps getting told the authenticator code is incorrect. He finally realizes the phone’s time is off, updates it to the proper time zone, and the newly generated codes now work fine.
Resetting 2FA After Losing Old Phone
Emily lost her old phone that had her authenticator app set up on it. She tries using backup codes to log into her bank account but has used up the limited codes. She goes through their 2FA reset process by confirming her identity. After resetting 2FA, she downloads the authenticator app on her new phone, scans the QR code, and regains access to her account using the newly generated codes.
Codes Not Working after Getting New Device
Jordan just activated a new smartphone and installed his authenticator app. However, when trying to login to his social media accounts, the 2FA codes don’t work. He realizes the issue is that his new device isn’t linked properly. Jordan goes into the app settings and transfers the account information from his old device using the provided QR codes. Now the app generates the correct codes for his accounts on the new phone.
Related Resources
For more help with two-factor authentication and troubleshooting issues, check out these additional resources: