How do I use 1Password instead of SMS for 2-factor verification codes with Google, Facebook, etc.

Nekoninda
Nekoninda
Community Member
edited February 2020 in Mac

I've read the document https://support.1password.com/one-time-passwords/ I've attempted to follow the instructions, but I can't get past this one: 'When you see a QR code for 1Password to scan, continue with the next steps.' I've never seen a QR code generated in this process. I've followed the previous instructions, and I never see an option to generate a QR code for the sites that I have tried. I also haven't seen a QR code when working with the 2-factor authentication on any site that I use. I probably misunderstand the relationship between one-time-passwords, 2-factor authentication, and the six-digit codes that I have been entering to confirm my identity on sites where I use 2-factor authentication. The QR code piece of the puzzle is a complete mystery to me, since I have yet to see that option.

I'm not even sure that I am on the right track for trying to use 1Password with 2-factor authentication. I have 2-factor authentication set up for Apple, Google, Facebook, and at least half a dozen other sites. For all of them, I am using SMS (text messages) to my iPhone, to receive the confirmation codes. I would prefer to use a more secure system than SMS, and to use 1Password, if possible. I've tried to install Authy, but got stuck in setting up my account with them, and got no useful help from their tech support.

Is it possible to use 1Password to receive the codes that Apple and Google send me as part of their 2-factor authentication, when I log in? If so, can you point me toward complete instructions for doing so? A video would be nice, if one exists.

1Password Version: 7.4.2
Extension Version: Not Provided
OS Version: 10.14.6
Sync Type: 1password.com

Comments

  • ag_ana
    ag_ana
    1Password Alumni

    The instructions in the article you have been following are indeed complete, but it sounds like you skipped part of them. I quote from the article:

    Before you can use 1Password as an authenticator, you’ll need to set up two-factor authentication for a website:

    1. Search TwoFactorAuth.org for the website.
    2. Click the blue book button next to the name of the website.
    3. Follow the instructions that the website provides.
      When you see a QR code for 1Password to scan, continue with the next steps.

    The TwoFactorAuth website can link you to the instructions to get a QR code for every website it supports.

    It sounds like you have not completed this first section, since you have two-factor authentication enabled via SMS for these websites. You will have to go to the account settings for these websites, disable SMS authentication, and enable an authenticator app. At this point, the website will show you your QR code, which you can then use to configure 1Password as your authenticator.

  • aw_NL
    aw_NL
    Community Member

    Hi! In the case of a Google Account, the instructions found via TwoFactorAuth.org take you to a page that lets you choose from:
    1. Prompt on mobile device
    2. SMS code
    3. Security key (FIDO)

    But no sign of a Google-generated QR code for 1Password to scan... Please advise!

  • anna212
    anna212
    Community Member

    I have the same question as @aw_NL. There is no option to scan a QR code when I try to enable 2FA on my Google Account. Is this not available with Google & 1PW?

    This is what I see when I try to enable 2FA on my Google Account.

  • anna212
    anna212
    Community Member

    Still trying to get answer on this. Can I not use 1PW for 2FA on Google? If not of the alternative methods the offer is there a recommended option?

This discussion has been closed.