You can enable two-factor authentication to make your Format account more secure.
Enabling Two-Factor Authentication from your Settings
- Navigate to your Settings area
- Navigate to your Format Account panel
- Two-Factor Authentication: Beneath the Password field, there is a new field titled Two-Factor Authentication. To add a two-factor authentication method, click Turn On Two-Factor
You can add multiple forms of two-factor authentication for your account, and can have more than one method active at the same time.
Types of Two-Factor Authentication methods
Once you click the Turn On Two-Factor button shown in the previous screenshot, a pop-up will appear, presenting you with a range of options.
- Email: Set up an email to receive verification codes every time you log in
- Google Authenticator: Connect your Google Authenticator app (or a similar app) to receive verification codes every time you log in
- Security Keys: Use biometric data (fingerprints, face scan) or a physical security key to log in to your account. The availability of these authentication methods depends on the device you are using
Email Authentication
If you select Email authentication, you will be prompted to proceed with the following steps:
- Email Address: Enter the email address you'd like to use for verification, then click Send Email
- Verify code: Once you've entered your email in the previous step, a one-time code will be sent to your email, which you will need to copy and paste here, then click Verify
The verification email will be sent from info@format.com. Verification codes are valid for ten minutes, after which time they expire, and a new code would need to be sent if you were unable to enter the initial code. If you don't see this email in your inbox, please be sure to check your spam folder, as well.
Google Authenticator
If you select Google Authenticator, you will be prompted to proceed with the following steps:
- Scan QR Code: Download the Google Authenticator app if you don't already have it installed on your phone. Open the app and scan the QR code shown in the pop-up. This will provide you with a 6-digit verification code
- Verify Code: Enter the 6-digit verification code and click Verify
Security Keys
If you select Security Keys, you will be prompted to proceed with the following steps:
- Set up Security Key: You can set up a nickname for your security key. This is optional, but it will help to distinguish between keys if you set up more than one
- Register Security Key: Click this button to begin registering your security key. Depending on the type of key you're registering and the device you're using, you may be prompted by your device to follow specific actions. If you're having any trouble with this, please reach out to our Success Team
Security keys are compatible with Touch ID (Mac), Face ID (iPhone/iPad), Windows Hello, or physical security keys like YubiKey.
Recovery Codes
Once you've completed setting up your Two-Factor Authentication method, you'll be presented with a series of Recovery Codes. These recovery codes can help you log in to your Format account if you lose access to your Two-Factor Authentication method.
You'll be given the option to Download, Print, and Copy the codes. We recommend you download and print these Recovery Codes and put them in a safe place so that you always have access to them.
Two-Factor Authentication Enabled
Once you've downloaded and printed your Recovery Codes, you'll be redirected back to your Settings panel. The Two-Factor Authentication section will have updated to reflect your new authentication method.
- Two-Factor Authentication Enabled: Visual confirmation that your two-factor authentication method has been set up successfully
- Remove: You can remove an authentication method if you no longer wish to use it
- Add Another Method: You can add an additional two-factor authentication method to your account. It's possible to have one of each type (Email, Google Authenticator, and Security Key)
Still have questions? Reach us on our live chat or email us at info@format.com. We’re here to help!