Setting up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on your Account

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-Factor Authentication refers to when your account requires more than one layer of verification prior to access, to increase its security. Whether your account requires MFA or not depends on whether it is enforced at a company level. In other words, if your company requires all its accounts to use MFA, you will not be able to bypass this.

If your an account owner and interested in setting this up, please read our other article, Enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) For Your Team.

Setting up Your MFA

When you log into your account for the first time after the setting is enforced, you will see the instructions along with a QR code.

Download an Authenticator app

• Microsoft Authenticator – Android or iOS
• Google Authenticator – Android or iOS
• Authy Authenticator – Desktop, Android, or iOS

Using a QR Code

If you are able to scan the QR Code with your phone (e.g. if you logged into Buddy from a different device), then follow these instructions:

1. Download an authenticator app on your phone, unless you already have one.
   If your company requires you to use a specific authenticator, make sure to follow the company policy in your choice of application
2. Open the authentication application
3. In your app, select the option to Add an account and select the QR Code method
4. Direct your camera towards Buddy's QR Code and scan it
5. Insert the 6-digit key onto Buddy
6. If the 6-digit key is correct, you will be logged into Buddy

Using a Setup Key

If you are logging in from your phone, then you might be unable to scan the QR Code. In that case, follow the instructions below:

1. Download an authenticator app on your phone, unless you already have one.
   If your company requires you to use a specific authenticator, make sure to follow the company policy in your choice of application
2. Log into your Buddy account
3. Click the Show Setup Key (as seen in the screenshot in the section above).
4. Click Copy (as seen in the screenshot below)
5. Open the authentication application
6. In your app, select the option to add an account and select the Setup Key method
7. Insert the account name (we recommend including Buddy in the account name)
8. Paste the Setup Key (that you copied in step 4)
9. Insert the 6-digit key onto Buddy
10. If the 6-digit key is correct, you will be logged into Buddy

What Should You See on your Authenticator App?

There are several authenticator apps that may be used for your Buddy MFA, and hence it will look a bit different based on which application you are using.

During Setup of the MFA

When you open the app, you should see a list of your linked accounts. If you have not yet setup Buddy, there is usually an option either on the top right or bottom right of your app to add a new account.

Retrieving the 6-digit key

If you have successfully set up the MFA, then Buddy will be listed in your accounts. In some authenticator apps, you might have to click this to view the one-time password.

Once you access the 6-digit key, simply copy it and write it into your Buddy account to log in.

Troubleshooting

• QR code will not scan → Use the manual setup key instead of scanning.
• Invalid or expired code → Wait for a new code to generate and re-enter it.
• Authenticator app not generating codes → Ensure your device date and time are set to update automatically.
• Lost or changed device → Contact your IT or support team to reset MFA/2FA. Admins should reach out to Buddy's support team instead.

FAQs