Setting up two-factor authentication

Add a 6-digit code from an authenticator app to your sign-in, so a stolen password alone can't get into your account — and, for CoverGuard staff, unlock admin access.

Who this is for: everyone who wants a stronger sign-in; required for CoverGuard staff who use the admin console. Where: Account → Account tab → Two-factor authentication (/account). Time: ~3 min.

Why this matters

A password can be guessed, reused or phished. With two-factor authentication on, signing in also needs a code that only your phone can produce. CoverGuard staff need it: the admin console opens only on a sign-in that used the code.

Before you start

• An authenticator app on your phone — for example Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, 1Password or Authy.
• You're signed in to CoverGuard.

How to turn it on

1. Open Account and stay on the Account tab.
2. Find Two-factor authentication and select Set up two-factor.
3. Scan the QR code with your authenticator app. If you can't scan it, type the secret shown under the code into the app instead.
4. Enter the 6-digit code the app shows and select Verify and turn on.

What you'll see

• At sign-in: after your password (or Google), CoverGuard asks for the 6-digit code. Enter the current code from your app.
• Staff opening the admin console: if you signed in without the code, you're taken to the code step with a note that admin access needs two-factor. If you haven't set it up yet, you're shown where to do it.
• In Account: your authenticator is listed with a Remove button.

Tips

• Codes change every 30 seconds. If one is about to expire, wait for the next.
• Removing an authenticator needs a sign-in that used the code. Sign out and back in with your code first if removal is refused.

Troubleshooting / Common questions

• "My code is rejected." → Check that your phone's clock is set automatically; authenticator codes depend on the time.
• "It says two-factor settings are unavailable right now." → CoverGuard couldn't read your current setup, so it won't offer "Set up" (that could add a second authenticator over one you already have). Select Try again, or reload the page.
• "I lost my phone." → Contact CoverGuard support from Getting help to reset two-factor on your account.
• "I'm staff and the admin console sends me to the dashboard." → You're not on a CoverGuard staff account, or your account's admin role hasn't been granted. Ask a CoverGuard admin.

Do this next

• Platform admin & observability (internal staff)
• Getting help