google authenticator on iPhone

beachBOYken · 24 Jul 2016 at 15:45

hi

Just need a little help on setting up google authenticator on my iPhone.

More so how I go about backing up in case i lose my phone.

When I go to set up an account it wants me to scan a QR code, should I click cant scan code and jot down the long code it asks to manually enter.

Im thinking this will be a backup for said account.

Thanks

KIA · 24 Jul 2016 at 18:45

An official way doesn't exist.

https://dpron.com/recovering-google-authenticator-keys-from-ios-backups/

Some sites generate backup codes when you enable authenticator.

beachBOYken · 24 Jul 2016 at 19:22

KIA said:
An official way doesn't exist.

https://dpron.com/recovering-google-authenticator-keys-from-ios-backups/

Some sites generate backup codes when you enable authenticator.

Seems that way.

But if I copy the QR code when I set up 2 factor in the authentication app would not act as a backup if I lose my phone?

ic1male · 25 Jul 2016 at 21:11

beachBOYken said:
But if I copy the QR code when I set up 2 factor in the authentication app would not act as a backup if I lose my phone?

No, I think that's a one-time only use. As said, most sites/apps will give you a recovery code which you can use to log in and disable the authenticator. Then you would have to go through the steps again on your new device.

Spleen Sauce · 26 Jul 2016 at 09:59

Just use 'Authy' - will allow you to sync Google Auth, etc across device and cloud.

beachBOYken · 26 Jul 2016 at 10:18

Spleen Sauce said:
Just use 'Authy' - will allow you to sync Google Auth, etc across device and cloud.

Yeah, not really wanting to have to sync stuff though. Ive got recovery codes anyhow and I have read that the QR codes may work again.

Cheers