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This article explains why Silverfin asks you to sign in with two-factor authentication (2FA) and how to set it up. 2FA adds a second step to your sign-in: a code from an Authenticator app alongside your password. It also covers which Authenticator apps you can use and what to do when 2FA does not work.

Table of contents 

Why do I have to sign in with two-factor authentication?

If you sign in to Silverfin and see a two-factor authentication screen, your firm has chosen to strengthen security by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA). With 2FA, you enter a code from an "Authenticator" app in addition to your password. On a trusted device you only need to do this once every 30 days, and it makes your account significantly harder to compromise.

What is an Authenticator app?

An Authenticator app generates a new temporary code every 30 seconds. You enter that code along with your password to access your account. Because the code changes so often, it is very difficult for an unauthorised user to gain access.

How do I set up two-factor authentication?

  1. Sign in to Silverfin. Once you have signed in and the two-factor authentication screen appears, click the green Continue to setup button.
  2. Install an Authenticator app.If you do not have one yet, you will need to install it. These are the options we recommend:
    • Google Authenticator for iOS or Android (mobile app)
    • Authy for iOS or Android (mobile app)
    • WinAuth (desktop app)
    • Microsoft Authenticator for iOS or Android (mobile app)
    • A password manager (note: the Authenticator feature in a password manager is not always free, but it can be used across several devices and shared between users)
  3. Scan the QR code. Open your Authenticator app and scan the QR code shown on the Silverfin screen.
  4. Enter the access code. Once Silverfin has been added to your Authenticator app, the app generates a code. Enter that code on the Silverfin screen.
  5. Trust your device (optional). If you are on a computer you trust, select Trust this browser for the next 30 days so you do not have to enter a code every time you sign in on that device.
  6. Complete the setup. Click Continue to finish setting up two-step verification.

What should I do if 2FA is not working?

Can I disable two-factor authentication?

Two-factor authentication (2FA) can only be disabled by an admin user at firm level. It cannot be disabled for individual users while it is enabled for the firm.

I lost the smartphone with my Authenticator app. What should I do?

Contact an admin user at your firm. They can reset 2FA for you, and you will then receive a new QR code to set up 2FA again.

I get errors when using 2FA. What should I do?

Contact an admin user at your firm. They can reset 2FA for you, and you will then receive a new QR code to set up 2FA again. Before you scan the new QR code, delete the old Silverfin account from your Authenticator app.