An authenticator app is a mobile application that provides an extra layer of security for your online accounts. It’s used as part of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
When you enable 2FA or MFA on an account, you use two different factors to prove your identity:
- Something you know (your password)
- Something you have (a unique code sent to your email or generated by an authenticator app on your phone)
This method is more secure than receiving a code by SMS text message. It protects your account even if your password is stolen or your phone number is targeted by attacks like SIM swapping.
How authenticator app verification works with Pigeonhole
You can turn on 2FA for your Pigeonhole Live account. The available 2FA methods are Email verification and Authenticator app verification.
Most authenticator apps generate temporary, unique codes that function as your second sign-in factor. A new code is generated every 30 seconds. When you set up Authenticator app verification, you’re asked to enter the current code from your authenticator app after you log in.
Authenticator apps
Common authenticator apps include:
- Google Authenticator
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Authy
- Duo Mobile