Two Factor Authentication (2FA) - How does it work?

Two Factor Authentication (2FA) - How does it work?

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your SIMcontrol account by requiring two forms of verification before granting access. There are three methods to authenticate:

• Authenticator app (preferred)

• Email (default)

• SMS (South Africa only)

All three methods will generate a One-Time PIN (OTP) that is used during the login process. 

Authenticator App  (Simplest and most secure option) 

An authenticator app is a phone-based app that generates time-sensitive one-time codes, or OTPs. These codes are used alongside your regular password to access your accounts. Authenticator apps are more secure than receiving codes via text messages or email, as they aren't susceptible to SIM card swapping or email interception.

Setting up an Authenticator App

Go to your app store and download a reputable authenticator app. Some popular options include:

• Google Authenticator: Available for both Android and iOS devices, Google Authenticator is user-friendly and widely used. Get it here. 

• Microsoft Authenticator: Available for Android and iOS, it integrates well with Microsoft accounts and other services. Get it here. 

• Authy: Available for Android, iOS as well as Desktop (Mac/Windows) versions. Get it here.

1. Go to SIMcontrol South Africa. Access your account profile

Click on your user profile icon located in the top right corner of the dashboard

2. Open profile settings
Select 'Profile' from the dropdown menu to navigate to your account settings.

3. Locate 2FA settings

Scroll down to the 'Two-Factor Authentication' section.

4. Initiate 2FA settings change

Enter your current password into the designated field and click the 'Change 2FA Settings' Button.

5. Select the authentication method

Choose the 'Authenticator (Recommended)' option as your verification method.

6. Scan the QR code
Use your authenticator app on your mobile device to scan the displayed QR code.

Verify the setup

Enter the 6-digit authentication code generated by your app into the 'Authentication code' field and click 'Verify code' to complete the process.

Verify the setup

Enter the 6-digit authentication code generated by your app into the 'Authentication code' field and click 'Verify code' to complete the process.

• Your Authenticator App is now set up. Every time you do a fresh login attempt on SIMcontrol, you will be asked for the Authenticator OTP displayed in the app.

• To change your 2FA settings, go to the 2FA section on your profile page.

Device Change
If you change your mobile device, you'll need to set up the authenticator app again on the new device.

Having trouble logging in? Try a different method.

If you're experiencing issues with your current 2FA method while logging in, you can try using a different authentication method. You can find this option on the Two-Factor Authentication screen on your User Profile.

You can choose to receive your code via emails, or if you have your mobile number saved under your profile, you will be able to select to receive an OTP via SMS.