How to Rebind Google 2FA With the Secret Key
If you have lost access to your Google Authenticator app—due to a device change, accidental uninstallation, or other reasons—you can restore your 2FA access by rebinding it with your secret key.
What Is a 2FA Secret Key?
The 2FA secret key is a unique code generated when you first enable Google Authenticator. It allows you to rebind (restore) your 2FA without needing to contact customer support.
⚠️ Important: BYDFi cannot retrieve your secret key for you. If you did not save it when setting up 2FA, you must go through identity verification to reset your 2FA.
When to Use the Secret Key for Rebinding
You can use the secret key to rebind Google Authenticator in situations like:
- Switching to a new phone
- Deleting or reinstalling the Authenticator app
- Resetting your phone
How to Rebind Google 2FA with the Secret Key
Follow these steps to restore your 2FA access using the saved key:
1. Download the Google Authenticator App
Install the Google Authenticator app on your new device. You can find it on:
2. Add a New Account
Open the app and tap the ‘+’ icon.
Select ‘Enter a setup key’
Enter your BYDFi account name for easy identification.
Input your secret key (the one you saved when first enabling 2FA).
Select ‘Time-based’ and tap ‘Add’
3. Use the New Code to Log In
The app will now generate 6-digit verification codes. Use this code to:
- Log in to your BYDFi account
- Make withdrawals
- Modify security settings
What If I Didn't Save the Secret Key?
If you no longer have access to your secret key, please refer to this article for details: Losing Your Google Authenticator on BYDFi
Pro Tips for 2FA Safety
- Always back up your secret key in a secure location (e.g., encrypted cloud storage or offline password manager).
- Avoid sharing the key with anyone else.
- Consider writing it down and storing it in a safe physical location.
If you need further help, feel free to contact our support team.
