Without a doubt, the Google Authenticator is one of the most effective software to save passwords and keep our mobile safe. The problem comes when changing devices or reinstalling the application and forgetting its access. In these cases, how to recover google authenticator?
Today, we explain the best methods and solutions to recover the Google Authenticator account. All the procedures that work in 2021 with which to continue protecting your mobile from malware and other threats.
For this, our experts have prepared a very practical guide on how to recover the application keys and passwords quickly, easily and safely.
How to recover google authenticator?
Above all, do not despair. And there are different ways to recover the passwords of this powerful authenticator. Remember that it is a necessary process to verify that you are the user and legitimate owner of said account. Therefore, Google will get a little picky and picky about information.
Next, let’s look at some reset methods.
Recover Google Authenticator with your secret key or QR code
One of the fastest ways to recover the Google Authenticator account is by means of a QR code or secret key. Google gives you this 16-character number when you use the app for the first time. The point is that if you lose your mobile or install the app again, you will need to have it on hand to regain your access to the platform. These are the steps to follow:
- The first time you use Google Authenticator, go to “Security” of your Google account and click on “Two-step verification.”
- Scan the QR code that you will see on the screen. We recommend taking a screenshot and storing it in a safe place.
- Then the secret key will appear. Write it down and save it correctly too.
- Enter the 6-digit code shown in the app to enable authentication.
- Install Google Authenticator on your mobile.
- To recover the account, open the app and type the secret password in “Manual Entry” (on iOS) or “Enter the password provided” (on Android) along with your username. And ready!
- But if you want more speed, you can scan the QR code associated with that key (the screenshot will do). Obviously, this will not work unless you have previously saved the secret code/key.
How to recover Google Authenticator codes?
When you buy a new mobile, you will have the possibility to transfer the codes from one terminal to another. To do this, both devices must be operational and the Google Authenticator app updated on the old one. The procedure is the next:
- Install Google Authenticator on your new phone.
- Open the app and click on «Start.»
- Go to the bottom of its interface and select “Import existing accounts?”.
- Open the app on your old mobile and create a QR code by following the path “More”> “Transfer accounts”> “Export accounts.”
- Select your accounts and click on «Next.»
- Go back to the new mobile and within the app, select “Scan QR code.”
- After a few seconds, you will receive a confirmation that it has been completed successfully.
- On the other hand, you should know that you will generate more than one QR code when transferring several accounts. Hence
- if you scan the code and it doesn’t work, it may be because there is too much information. The solution will involve exporting with fewer of them.
Install the Google Authenticator App
One of the main problems is that Google Authenticator is not on the mobile, either because it has been uninstalled or because it does not come with the new phone.
To make sure of this, go to the Play Store and search for the app. If you have it downloaded, you can open it from there. Otherwise, download it and enter it to activate the device by entering the QR code or key.
Repeat this procedure on all the devices you want to integrate with Google Authenticator. This will enable two-step verification.
Recover forgotten password from mobile
Another option that you can try is through the Google accounts recovery page, either through the app or the browser:
- Once inside the page, enter your email with the last password you used.
- If you have forgotten it, it indicates that you do not remember it.
- The system will send you a text message or call you at the number linked to that Google account to give you a new code.
- Enter it to enter and remember to change the password once you get it.
Recover Google Authenticator account via email
For this method, you will need Gmail and follow these steps:
- Go to the login page. If you do not remember your email, click on the question if you have forgotten it. Google will ask you to enter a phone number or some other recovery email.
- It is very important that you answer the questions and provide the information requested correctly. Otherwise, it will not let you recover the account.
- In this step, you can directly log into the Google authenticator. This should allow you access by having the passwords configured and saved.
If you do not have access to the main mobile, verify your identity in the new. In case of theft or loss of your main mobile phone, Google makes available to the user a series of alternatives to confirm your identity and recover the Authenticator. The easiest way is to log into your Google account on the new phone and do the verification on it. Follow the steps indicated and, if you are unsuccessful, resort to another method.
Sign in from a trusted device
An alternative to the above is to log into your Google account from another trusted device. That is a mobile, tablet or computer that you access regularly and that you do not share with other users.
That is why we recommend that you always have a second backup device, as well as activate the option “Do not ask again on this computer” when you log in. In this way, when you do not have access to your main mobile phone, you will be able to enter your data on that device without performing a second verification step.
If your security key has been stolen or you have lost …
Can’t find your security key? Or has it been stolen from you? Fortunately, you still have one last bullet left in your chamber to access your account and retrieve the Google Authenticator. Although everything will depend on whether or not you have configured another second verification step such as an alternative key, a security code or a text message, among others.
When you have a second verification method, these will be the steps to follow:
- Log in to Google with your password and your second verification step.
- Follow the prompts to remove the lost security key.
- Get a new one. The ideal is to get two, the main one and an extra.
- Register it by logging in from a compatible browser (Chrome, Firefox or Safari 13.0.4 and higher).
- If you don’t have a second step or password, follow Google’s instructions to recover your account. Typically, it asks for an alternate email address or phone number where to contact you. It also sends you a code that you must enter to verify that you have access to that email or phone. The identity verification process can take between 3 and 5 business days.
Use an alternative app
If, at this point, it has been impossible for you to access your account and recover Google Authenticator, opt for the Authy app. It is a totally free alternative with which to configure two-step verification in Google and other services such as Facebook, Outlook, Dropbox or Amazon, among others.
One of its advantages is that it generates backup copies in the cloud using the same algorithms as banks. That is why the information will be protected at all times. It is also a multi-device tool that works without an Internet connection.
Tips and Precautions
Now that we’ve seen these methods, we’ll give you some additional tips to keep in mind when using Google Authenticator:
- Remember to check the information well when your device undergoes a recent change or update. System updates often change the default values or settings of the app. That is why we recommend you review it after the changes.
- If you have lost your mobile, it is important that you report it as stolen or lost. Immediately afterward, try to log in from a trusted computer and change your passwords for all Google apps. In case you have activated the two-step verification, we recommend that you wait to have the new mobile phone or a recovery email where the code reaches you.
- When you cannot enter, check that the app is not deconfigured. Sometimes things like changing the time zone can cause some glitches in it.
FAQ
How does Google Authenticator work?
Google Authenticator is a tool that generates 6-digit random codes every 30 seconds. These serve as a second layer of security to enter websites, applications and different types of services. And you will have to enter them to enter any account that you include in Google Authenticator.
It is one of the best options to protect against hackers and other threats, thanks to the fact that each code is for single use. There is no possible way of knowing which is going to be the next to appear.
Can I get my Google Authenticator accounts back?
Yes, as long as you have previously saved the secret key or QR code. Each time 2-Step Verification is created for a specific account, the website provides these two elements to you. They will be the ones you must use in the Google Authenticator app.
It is very important that you keep this information in a safe and hidden place. We also recommend that you print it because if your mobile is stolen or lost, there will be no way to regain access within Google Authenticator.
Where do I find the Google security codes?
All security codes are stored within the 2-Step Verification section of your Google account. This is the procedure to follow:
- Sign in with your account and click Manage your Google account.
- On iPhone, you must do it from the Gmail app, accessing Menu> Settings> Your account.
- On Android, from the Google section of the mobile Settings menu.
- Then select Security.
- Swipe the screen until you find the Access to Google option. In it, click on Two-Step Verification.
- Once inside, find Backup Codes and click Settings or Show Codes.
- It is done! You will see the codes and you can print or download them.
- Of course, for this, it is essential that you have previously activated two-step verification. Otherwise, you will not find the Backup Codes section.
What is a verification code and what is it for?
A verification code is a randomly created number intended to confirm your identity when accessing a service account. It is the basis of two-step authentication since it is the second identification mechanism when you log in to your account. And only you have access to it. In most cases, the code must be entered after entering your username and password.
What does the 2FA code mean?
The 2FA, or Second Authentication Factor, is a code system that adds a second identity verification step to access your accounts. 2FA codes consist of 6 digits and are generated randomly every few seconds.
As you can see, Google Authenticator is a really safe way to keep your data safe, with the confidence that it will not be stolen. Take the above points into consideration and get the most out of them.
