Setting up MFA without a QR code scanner

Posted about 1 month ago by Harrison Gowers


If you are unable to scan the QR code required to set up MFA in your authenticator app for any reason, the following steps will enable you to validate without scanning the code.


1. On the Authentication screen, take a clear screenshot of the QR code. 



2. Open a QR Code Reader application or website on your device.


3. Upload the screenshot of your QR code to the site / application. This will read the code and translate it into standard characters.




4. Make a note of the 16 character secret key ("secret=XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX&issuer") and open your Authenticator app.


5. In your Authenticator app go to add or create a new account. Instead of scanning the QR code, choose "Enter code manually" (the wording will vary depending on the application).



6. When prompted, enter the 16 character key you saved in Step 4 and hit "Save". Depending on the app used, you may also be prompted to enter a URL. If so enter the Smartbox.ai platform address: https://app.smartbox.ai/



7. Once the code has been entered manually complete the remainder of the authentication set-up as normal.


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