Strengthening security: Two-factor authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication or multi-factor authentication (MFA) is the process of using two methods of verifying your identity when logging into your account. Your password is the first method and a code from an authenticator app provides the second. This added layer of security makes it more difficult for unauthorized parties to access your account. We recommend enabling 2FA for your EquityZen account.
How do I enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for my account?
1) Click the gear icon in the top right-hand corner and navigate to Account Settings.
2) Once on your Account Settings page, click on the Security tab.
3) On the Security page, scroll down to the bottom section titled Two-Factor Authentication and click the green Enable button on the right.
4) After clicking Enable, re-enter your password to verify your identity.
5) Download an authenticator app, such as Google Authenticator or Duo. It is necessary to have this app installed and available whenever you access your EquityZen account.
6) Either scan the QR code with your authenticator app to register it or copy and paste the provided key into the authenticator app.
7) After scanning the QR code or copying the key, a time-based authentication code will appear in the authenticator app, also known as the one-time password (OTP).
8) Enter the one-time password (OTP) on EquityZen to finish your two-factor authentication (2FA) enrollment. A confirmation notification will appear upon successful completion.
When will I be asked to use it if I enable two-factor authentication (2FA)?
At this time, you will only be asked to enter your time-based authentication code when logging back in to your EquityZen account that has previously been logged out. Keep in mind that closing the EquityZen app or window on your computer alone won’t log you out of your EquityZen account.
Do I have to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for my account?
Enabling 2FA on your EquityZen account is entirely voluntary, though we recommend you enable it for an added layer of security.
What authenticator app can I use for two-factor authentication (2FA)?
You can use any Authenticator app on your phone to enable 2FA on your account. Two of the more popular apps are Google Authenticator (iOs or Android) and Duo (iOs or Android).
Can I use an authenticator app from a device other than my phone (like an iPad or computer?)
If you will be using your iPad for authentication, Authenticator Apps such as Google Authenticator or Duo are compatible. Please note that you will be unable to use Google Authenticator or Duo via your computer.
If you will be using your computer for authentication, one of the more popular apps is Authy.
What happens if my time-based authentication code expires before I enter it?
The time-based authentication code provided by your Authenticator App will typically regenerate after 30 seconds and will expire shortly after that. In the event this happens before you are able to enter this original code, simply enter the new code that populates on your Authenticator App.
What happens if I lose my device that has my authenticator app on it?
Contact EquityZen for assistance, and a representative will reach out to you to begin the account recovery process. You can reach us at support@equityzen.com.
To regain access to your account, we'll ask you a series of questions to verify your identity. After your identity is confirmed, you will be required to reset your password via a link sent to the email related to your account. You may then re-enable two-factor authentication (2FA) using a different device. Please see here for additional details on how to re-enable 2FA.
How do I disable two-factor authentication (2FA) from my account?
1) Click the gear icon in the top right-hand corner and navigate to Account Settings.
2) Once on your Account Settings page, click on the Security tab.
3) On the Security page, scroll down to the bottom section titled Two-Factor Authentication and click on the red Disable button on the right.
4) Confirm your decision to disable two-factor authentication (2FA) by clicking on the Disable 2FA option. You may also click on "No, Keep Enabled" to continue having 2FA set up for your account.
5) If you choose to disable 2FA, after clicking Disable 2FA, re-enter your password to verify your identity.
6) Open the authenticator app you previously registered on EquityZen for use with 2FA (such as Google Authenticator or Duo), to retrieve your one-time password (OTP).
7) Enter your one-time password (OTP) on EquityZen to finish disabling. A confirmation notification will appear upon successfully disabling 2FA.
Does EquityZen provide two-factor authentication (2FA) backup codes?
No, EquityZen does not provide backup codes. If you lose your device, you'll need to contact EquityZen for assistance, and a representative will reach out to you to begin the account recovery process. You can reach us at support@equityzen.com.
To regain access to your account, we'll ask you a series of questions to verify your identity. After your identity is confirmed, you will be required to reset your password via a link sent to the email related to your account. You may then re-enable two-factor authentication (2FA) using a different device. Please see here for additional details on how to re-enable 2FA.