Multi-Factor Authentication

Overview

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your AlphaTales account. When MFA is enabled, signing in requires both your password and a time-based verification code from an authenticator app on your phone. This means that even if someone obtains your password, they cannot access your account without the second factor.

What You Need

Before setting up MFA, install an authenticator app on your mobile device. Common options include:

• Google Authenticator
• Authy
• Microsoft Authenticator
• 1Password

Any app that supports TOTP (time-based one-time passwords) will work.

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication

1. Navigate to Settings and select the Account & Security tab.
2. In the Security card, find the Two-Factor Authentication section.
3. Click the Enable button. You will be taken to the MFA enrollment page.

Scanning the QR Code

On the enrollment page:

1. Open your authenticator app on your mobile device.
2. Tap the option to add a new account (usually a "+" button).
3. Scan the QR code displayed on screen.

Tip: If you cannot scan the QR code, a manual entry code is displayed below it. Copy this code into your authenticator app instead.

Verifying Your Setup

1. Your authenticator app will begin generating 6-digit codes that change every 30 seconds.
2. Enter the current 6-digit code from your app into the verification field.
3. Click Verify and Enable 2FA.
4. A success message confirms that two-factor authentication is now active.

You will be returned to the Account & Security settings, where the status shows "Two-factor authentication is currently enabled."

Signing In with MFA

After MFA is enabled, every time you sign in to AlphaTales:

1. Enter your email and password as usual.
2. You will see a verification page asking for your 6-digit code.
3. Open your authenticator app and enter the current code.
4. Click Verify and Sign In.

Warning: If you lose access to your authenticator app and cannot enter a code, use the "Contact support" link on the verification page for help regaining access to your account.

Disabling Two-Factor Authentication

1. Go to Settings and select the Account & Security tab.
2. In the Two-Factor Authentication section, click Disable.
3. A confirmation dialog warns that this removes the extra security layer.
4. Click Disable MFA to confirm.

After disabling, you will only need your password to sign in.

Warning: Disabling MFA reduces your account security. Only disable it if you have a specific reason, and consider re-enabling it as soon as possible.