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How to access : Set up multi-factor authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a process that requires a user to provide two forms of verification to access a website. This is an added layer of security to protect users and data.

We recommend using the Google Authenticator app on your Android or iPhone, which will send you a unique verification code every time you sign in.

Download the Google Authenticator app (opens in a new tab) 

You must activate two-step verification within 24 hours of receiving your account details before you can use the app. If you miss this window, get a new code by emailing IDS.customer.support@ons.gov.uk (opens in a new tab) 

Activate two-step verification

  1. On your phone or laptop web browser, use the information from your email invitation to sign in to your new Google account (opens in a new tab) 
  2. On the “Welcome” page, select “enrol” and enter your password.
  3. You will be asked to use your phone as your second step to sign in, select “Don’t see your device?”
  4. You will then see instructions for either Android or iPhone users. Follow the instructions that apply to your device and add your new account.
  5. Once you have authenticated your phone, select “Try Again”. Your phone should now be listed under “These devices can get prompts”, select “Continue”.
  6. Skip the “Backup codes” section by selecting “Next”, followed by “I have my codes”.
  7. On the “Turn on two-step verification?” screen, select “Turn on”.

After these steps, you will return to the two-step verification page. From here, you can set up your Authenticator app.

Set up Google Authenticator

  1. Under “Add more second steps to verify that it’s you”, select “Authenticator app” and sign in again if asked.
  2. Select “Set up authenticator”.
  3. There should now be a box that says your authenticator has been added, it is now set up and ready to be used. Select “Back”.
  4. You can now sign out from your Google account on your phone.

You will be able to use the Authenticator app from this point to complete MFA.