What is Multi-Factor Authentication?
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), also known as Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), adds an extra layer of security to your Alt account. After entering your password or using a magic link, you'll need to provide a second verification method.
Setting Up MFA
Choose your preferred method:
Authenticator App (Recommended)
Use Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator, 1Password, or any other authenticator app
Scan QR code during setup
To complete authenticator setup for first time usage:
Open the authenticator app, tap the "+" button, and choose "Scan a QR code."
Follow the app's instructions to complete the setup process.
Enter 6-digit code each time you log in
SMS or WhatsApp
Receive verification codes via text message
Enter code each time you log in
Also satisfies phone verification requirement
When You'll Need To Establish MFA On Your Alt Account
New users: Set up MFA immediately after creating your account
Existing users: You'll be prompted to set up MFA on your next login
Every login after setup: Enter your MFA code after your password/magic link
Sessions stay active: MFA is only required when logging in, not during active sessions
Troubleshooting Common MFA Setup Issues
QR code won't scan / barcode not recognized
Make sure the camera has enough distance from the screen — hold your phone 6–8 inches away
Increase your screen brightness to maximum before scanning
If using an ad blocker or browser extension, disable it and reload the page — these can interfere with QR code rendering
If the QR code still won't scan, most authenticator apps have a "Enter code manually" option — select this, then look for the "Can't scan barcode?" or "Manual entry" link on the Alt setup screen to get the text code
The 6-digit code isn't being accepted
Authenticator codes refresh every 30 seconds — make sure you're entering the code before it expires
Check that your phone's date and time are set to automatic/network time. A clock that's even slightly off will cause codes to fail
If you just set up the authenticator, wait for the code to refresh once before trying again
"Invalid code" error after entering correctly
This usually means the app and the server clocks are out of sync — enable automatic time on your device and try again
If you set up multiple entries for Alt in your authenticator app by mistake, delete duplicates and only keep the most recent one
Set up MFA but can't log in now
Make sure you're opening your authenticator app after entering your password/magic link, not before
If you've switched phones or deleted your authenticator app, you'll need to contact support to reset MFA — see "Lost Access" below
Lost Access to Your MFA Method?
Contact Alt Support to Reset:
Email Support@Alt.xyz with your account email
Provide photo ID for verification
Answer security questions
Wait 24-48 hours for identity verification
Reset complete - set up MFA again on next login
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my MFA method?
A: No, you must contact our Support team in order to reset your MFA.
What if I get a new phone?
A: Transfer your authenticator app to your new device, or contact our Support team to reset MFA.
Can I bypass the MFA requirement?
A: Not at this time. All Alt users must establish MFA to protect their accounts.