> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.dscout.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.dscout.com/account-management/user-account-settings/two-factor-authentication-2fa.md).

# Two-factor authentication (2FA)

{% hint style="info" %}
As of May 6th, 2024, 2FA is required for all account seat holders who do not utilize SSO exclusively for logging into Dscout.
{% endhint %}

For added security and peace of mind, Dscout supports two-factor authentication (2FA). This means you can require two forms of credentials to log in: (1) your email and password and (2) a unique, temporary passcode generated by a 2FA app.

To use 2FA, you’ll need to have your mobile device with you to generate a verification code. You can do so by downloading an authentication app on your mobile device (e.g. [Authy](https://www.authy.com/), [Google Authenticator](https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/1066447?hl=en), [Authenticator Plus](https://www.authenticatorplus.com/), [Duo Mobile](https://guide.duo.com/), etc.).

## Getting Started

If you haven't yet set up 2FA for your account and your user account requires it, you will see a "Two Factor Authentication" setup page immediately after logging into Dscout. To begin, you will need to download or utilize a 2FA app of your choice.

![](/files/7e7fa192f63ce4c94af894f8fd2a234a3884658e)

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Open your authentication app

Open the authentication app and use it to scan the QR code on the 2FA setup page using your device’s camera—there is usually a “+” icon to add a new account.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Enter the verification code

Once you scan the QR code, enter the 6-digit verification code generated by the app.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Verify and activate

Click ‘Verify Code and Activate.’ When you log in next time, you’ll be prompted to enter a 6-digit code from your authentication app.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Save your backup codes

You’ll then be taken to the 2FA Backup Codes page. You must copy and store these codes somewhere safe in case you lose access to your authentication device. Each code can only be used once to log in to your account.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## Generate New Backup Codes

In case you lose track of your active set of backup codes, you can always generate a new set of codes. You’ll find this option under your Profile settings.

{% hint style="warning" %}
When you generate new backup codes, your old codes will no longer be valid.
{% endhint %}

## Troubleshooting

<details>

<summary>"Invalid two-factor code" error</summary>

If you receive an error telling you your two-factor code is invalid, chances are good it's because your device's date and time settings aren't set automatically. Mismatched time zones can cause issues when verifying your identity.

To check your time zone settings, navigate to the following depending on your device type:

**iOS:** General > Date & Time > Set Automatically (should be toggled **ON**)

**Android:** Settings > System > Date & Time > Set time zone automatically or Automatic time zone (should be toggled **ON**)

</details>

Still stuck? Please reach out to <info@dscout.com> for help with regaining access to your account.


---

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