How to set up two-factor authentication (2FA) for cryptocurrency wallets?

Secure your accounts with 2FA! Choose from authenticator apps (Google Authenticator), hardware tokens (Ledger), SMS codes (less secure), or biometrics. Always keep backups and update regularly.

Feb 28, 2025 at 02:22 pm

• Choose the right 2FA method :

• Authenticator App : such as Google Authenticator, Authy, etc. This type of app generates one-time verification codes, which are highly secure and does not rely on the network. For example, Google Authenticator can manage verification of multiple accounts at the same time after downloading and installing.

• Hardware Token : Hardware devices such as Ledger Nano S, Trezor, etc. They store keys physically, which are extremely secure. For example, Ledger Nano S needs to be connected to a computer to trade, effectively preventing theft of private keys.

• SMS verification code : Receive verification code through mobile phone. The advantage is that it is convenient, and almost everyone has a mobile phone to receive. However, there is a risk of being attacked by SIM card exchange, and the security is slightly weak.

• Biometrics : Use fingerprints, facial recognition, etc. Convenient and fast, if your phone supports fingerprint unlocking, you can use it directly when logging into your wallet. However, some devices may have accuracy problems.

• Set up 2FA using common wallets as an example :

• MetaMask Wallet :

• Open the MetaMask plug-in or application, click the avatar in the upper right corner to enter settings.

• Select the Security & Privacy option and find Two-Factor Authentication.

• If you select the Authenticator App and click "Enable", the QR code will appear. Open the Authenticator App, click "Add Account", and scan the QR code.

• The app generates a 6-bit verification code, enter it to the corresponding location of MetaMask, and complete the settings.

• Trust Wallet :

• Enter Trust Wallet, click the menu icon in the upper right corner, and select "Settings".

• Click the "Security" option to find "Two-factor authentication".

• If you use a hardware token, follow the prompts to connect the hardware device to the phone and complete the pairing according to the device operation instructions.

• If you select SMS verification, enter your mobile phone number, click "Send verification code", and enter it to complete the settings after receiving it.

• Ledger Hardware Wallet :

• Connect the Ledger device to the computer and open the supporting software.

• Find the Settings option in the software and click Security Settings.

• Select "Enable two-factor authentication". If you select the Authenticator App, scan the QR code generated by the software.

• Enter the generated verification code in the Authenticator App to confirm the settings.

• Alternate verification method settings :

• Alternative verification code : Many wallets provide alternate verification codes when setting up 2FA. For example, MetaMask, a string of alternate codes will be displayed after the setting is completed. Copy it on paper and store it in a safe place, such as locked in a drawer.

• The second verification method : for example, set up an authentication app and add SMS verification as a backup. In the wallet settings, find "Add Alternate Verification Method" and follow the prompts.

• Notes :

• Protect the security of the device : If you use your mobile phone as an identity verification device or receive SMS verification code, set the lock screen password to prevent the verification code from being obtained after the mobile phone is lost.

• Regular updates : The authentication app and wallet software should be updated in a timely manner to fix security vulnerabilities and improve security.

• Share information with caution : Do not disclose verification codes, backup codes and other information to others to prevent the account from being stolen.

• Test verification : After the setup is completed, log out of the wallet and log in again to test whether the 2FA is working normally. If you enter your password, can you successfully log in through the second-level verification?

• Record recovery information : If you use hardware tokens and other devices, record the recovery phrase or key of the device to prevent the device from being lost or damaged, you can restore wallet access.