Google Authenticator adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts by adding a second step of verification when you sign in. This means that in addition to your password, you'll also need to enter a code that is generated by the Google Authenticator app on your phone.
The verification code can be generated by the Google Authenticator app on your phone, even if you don't have a network or cellular connection.
• Sync your Authenticator codes to your Google Account and across your devices. This way, you can always access them even if you lose your phone.
• Set up your Authenticator accounts automatically with a QR code. This is quick and easy, and it helps to ensure that your codes are set up correctly.
• Support for multiple accounts. You can use the Authenticator app to manage multiple accounts, so you don't have to switch between apps every time you need to sign in.
• Support for time-based and counter-based code generation. You can choose the type of code generation that best suits your needs.
• Transfer accounts between devices with a QR code. This is a convenient way to move your accounts to a new device.
To use Google Authenticator with Google, you need to enable 2-Step Verification on your Google Account. To get started visit http://www.google.com/2step
Google Authenticator Positive Reviews
All these 1 star reviews.Holy cow, there are a lot of 1star reviews. I read most of them and they are complaining about losing their stuff. Maybe they should be complaining about their stupidity. TURN 2FA OFF. If you were smart you would know to just turn 2FA off before getting a new phone. The day before. Or if your phone breaks then that yes I understand that but if you are getting a new phone because your current one is outdated maybe turn it off before trashing your old phone with 2FA. It’s a good app to have all around, I almost got hacked but 2FA saved my account..Nate (all others are taken)Version: 3.4.0
No back up for AuthenticatorThere is no back up for Google authenticator. It may appear that there is one, but there really isn’t. If you lose your original device without first exporting, your Authenticator, you will not be able to access any of those accounts that you have with a two-step verification, uses us authenticator there is no other option. There is no option to access your previous Google authenticator. There’s no other option exported if you’ve deleted or erase the original phone. It is the biggest flaw in the system here every other Authenticator whether it’s Microsoft LastPass even there was random ones have some form of back up that don’t require you to actually export it first. Not google! it may look like there’s an option but there isn’t you must first exported before you do anything with your original device that means erase it anything which doesn’t make much sense because people are not gonna remember to do that. They’re only gonna remember to do some sort of back up option. if you set up on Google has another secondary two step verification either text message or something else but if you made Authenticator your primary two-step verification, you will probably have to do an account recovery to get into that account. If you not exported your Google authenticator previously which includes Google by the way..ManleypciiiVersion: 4.0.2
Essential App, But No Cloud BackupThis is one of the most essential apps on my phone. I don’t know why I trust Google with my 2FA codes (I don’t really) but this is a very useful and important app. It is pretty basic as far as apps go, but it works for the intended purpose.
They just added the ability to transfer 2FA codes when upgrading to a new phone. They released this feature less than a month after the second wave of new iPhones came out… so less than a month ago I did the transfer manually, turning 2FA off and back on for my new phone across a dozen services. Some were easy to transfer, others were the opposite. It took over an hour. Their timing with this feature is awful, but at least it’s here now I suppose..Proteus846Version: 3.1.0
This app needs an Apple Watch versionOur job requires us to use the Authenticator to log into our company portal. I finally broke down and purchased an Apple Watch with cellular capability so that I could leave my phone in my locker and still be able to make calls and send texts and also have access to apps. Recently I accidentally left my phone at home and it wasn’t until I tried to log in to my workstation that I realized I left my Authenticator at home as well. Why is the app not available for Apple Watch. With the functionality of my Apple Watch Ultra and the fact that the Authenticator only displays digits, this seems like a no brainer. I will obviously continue to use this app but a version in my Ultra would be awesome..Gr8wyt14Version: 4.0.1
Google Authenticator appI would recommend the Google authenticator app to anyone who wants to have a double layer of security while they’re online doing business and any other thing that may involve high security. Once the Authenticator app is set up, which is fairly easy. The app is fast and easy. More security verified in real time helps me protect my assets. If you don’t have it I would download the app and connect it to the various accounts you have that offer the second level of security or the passwords change every 60 seconds. I love it..Stephenomenal.tipsVersion: 4.0.1
Mixed FeelingsThis app succeeds at providing an air of security to users. But, who is going to protect us from Google? Every time you use the app, Google links you and your device at that time and location to the application you are authenticating. So, if you are deliberately trying to stay private, but are forced to 2FA, this app actually may diminish your personal privacy and security. But, of course we can trust Google! They have spent a TON of money telling us that.
Still 5 stars. The truth should not diminish a good rating. It should be transparent..Rubiconnect13Version: 3.4.0
Finally!!!!!I just wanted to say Thank you for finally putting a export accounts option to move from device to device cause this was always my more preferred app but due to lack of exporting accounts couldn’t take the risk so I’ve been using the Microsoft version. I did like how there was a Apple Watch version although It was never really that useful anyway. But I hope maybe there might be a Apple Watch version of this someday if not that’s fine then. Please always keep improving this app..Review guy 467Version: 3.1.1
Would it kill you to make a dark mode app icon?Google, you’ve created one of the most ubiquitous authenticator apps for iOS. It’s great. It’s simple. It works.
But now that you’ve made it, it’s painfully obvious you’ve allocated zero resources to maintain it.
iOS 18 came out over a month ago, finally giving iPhone users the ability to glow up and customize their UI. Within hours to days of the release, 95% of all apps (including almost every other Google-made app) released updates that included new dark mode app icons. Literally the easiest development task possible.
Except Google Authenticator.
TL;DR: I’m salty because this app is the ONLY app that is both necessary to have on the Home Screen of my brand new phone I can finally customize but does not support the new dark mode app icon scheme, thus throwing off the whole vibe of my phone. The black fly in my Chardonnay, as it were.
Plus it makes you look like lazy devs on what should be a well looked after app..NicholasDWilsonVersion: 4.2.1
Basic But GoodGoogle Authenticator is a good, but very basic Authenticator app. In my view it is missing the ability to 1) make a backup of your keys; 2) sync your keys between multiple devices (you can add a key to multiple devices now but only manually); 3) add a password or otherwise secure the app, so if someone gains access to your device they can’t also get into authenticator.
Microsoft Authenticator and Authy both offer these features. Google needs to up its game..DontPatronizeMeBroVersion: 3.4.0
Best AuthenticatorLook there are a bunch’s of MFA tools you can find including the famous one but I’m telling you use Google Authenticator. You only see why Google stands out from the crowed when it comes to that simplicity embraced with security. Simply imagine you are switching your phone and get transferred all your MFA list… I can’t tell you how simple was I able to do that using Google Authenticators while the others were giving me a headache..$lim MediVersion: 3.4.0
Improvement SuggestionI think there should be an easier way for me to regain access into my account authenticators that I had on my device before I had refreshed my phone
While my phone operates much nicer than it did, and though the accounts that I have yet to regain access to do not have very much money at all and I have access to my accounts that I want, I feel that increasing convenience would be an easier process for account recovery especially because I have everything to prove that I am the owner to all of the accounts that have any money as with the accounts that I have access to now, I went about identifying each account individually
Thank you for ensuring that my accounts are secure permitting me to have direct access to what I want
- Keean.MicandguitarVersion: 3.4.0
My go to MFA applicationI like how a cloud backup option was added so you don’t have to go through the pain of losing your MFA codes since everyone keeps the back up codes in a safe place. With iOS 18 what bugs me is there’s no dark themed app icon. It makes the app stand out just not in a good way. This is something that wouldn’t take very much time to fix. I do trust this app though even if it looks like it’s been forgotten..S0crat1cVersion: 4.2.1
Simple and greatI started using this when you know cryptocurrency or trading apps told me to use an authenticator app and this works perfectly fine but the best feature of this is that I just changed my iPhone from a iPhone 14 and iPhone 16 and I forgot to pack up my coats for the Authenticator app already did that for me so when I went when the app installed again in my iPhone 16, I already had all the codes which was great..JmatutegarciaVersion: 4.2.1
Pen icon that’s usually on the top right’s missingPrior to the new update, the pen or pencil icon which is used to delete and edit/rename Authentication Codes have gone missing. I noticed this when I accidentally made an error and wanted to correct it but couldn’t because the tool used to do so is gone. This is a good app but I feel as though the devs have totally forgotten to add back that feature. Now it’s replaced by a cloud symbol..DropLeBaseVersion: 4.0.2
Great but keep safe and stored right!Great but keep safe and stored right! I’ve lost once before long time ago my google authentication app. Lost everything connected to 2 auth. Had issues getting my accounts back to 100%. However, that’s what is so amazing about this app. Only me, or whoever has the full capability of getting into a secure app and device. people granted basically. Thanks google once again..BryceWetzelVersion: 3.4.0
Works… could be a lot better!I lost a lot when my phone died. So I understand the frustration with not being able to backup, and also understand why they chose not to have this option. But this could be safely and easily solved by having a recovery option linked to a phone number. Essentially the same way that emails can have a backup email, why not a backup 2FA?
They could do much better allowing for sharing between devises. This is important for teams or even just people more than one device like phone and a tablet.
Finally most don’t need this, but some do. So why not have an option for some organization?
I give it 4 stars because it does work, and it is a great solution over text massage 2FA which can be very problematic when traveling between countries..Cmy3yVersion: 3.4.0
Is this the update we’ve been waiting for?I saw with the most recent update Google added the feature to move accounts to a new device. Previously the Authenticator app only moved Google accounts so if it now moves all accounts that are stored in the Authenticator app that would make this app 100% more useful. I only change devices every few years so I’ll need to wait to confirm but this appears to be a major update with a feature that people have wanted for a very long time.2trotVersion: 3.1.0
Won’t start after iOS 14.2 update, v3.1.0 of the app(UPDATE: it’s working again after app update! The App Store told me there was no update available when I first checked, but now 10 min later there is an update. Problem was Apple, not Google.)
I have loved google Authenticator for my 2fa needs: SSH verification and websites. But now the app will not start. I’ve rebooted my phone and checked the App Store for updates but I’m running version 3.1.0 of the app already..PhiliaagapeVersion: 3.1.0
These validators make things worseAfter my Apple phone reinstalled the system, the account in the Google authenticator was gone, and the website that required two-step verification could not be opened. Please, is this a normal situation?
Once the app is uninstalled, the website that has previously undergone two-step verification will not be opened. So, what is the meaning of these autoencitors?.多花黄精一个个Version: 3.4.0
Ruined my weekendYesterday I went to use my Authenticator and saw that all my accounts were duplicated. I completely closed the app and opened it again. Still duplicates. I couldn’t stand this so I deleted the extra accounts. No more duplicates. Today I went to setup 2 factor for twitch since they got hacked, and I had no accounts. Going to have to spend my weekend recovering all my accounts..EnzideoutVersion: 3.2.0
I can’t get back on my old google AuthenticatorThere are many reviews complaining that deleting
the app, migrating to a new device, etc... lost
access to their 2-factor auth codes. This is exactly
what you want from a security perspective! That is
precisely why I rated this app with 5 stars. Very
few 2-factor apps do not backup to the cloud and
this is one of them. No question that cloud backup
is extremely convenient but there is often a trade-
off between convenience and security and this is a
great example of that. This app is for those who
choose a bit of extra security (codes only stored
on the device) over the convenience of having
their codes stored both on the device and in the.JayBliz01Version: 3.2.0
Recent changes removed featuresI’ve used this app for years for two factor authentication. While still a solid app, recent changes removes features that were occasionally useful, such as editing the entries (you can’t rename them any more), re-ordering your entries, or deleting codes for services you no longer use.
Other than that, solid app that works. I like how easy it is to transfer codes to other devices..Rick_James_007Version: 4.0.1
Syncing with your Google account is excellent!Please,please don’t ever kill this app. ( well we know this is Google here) I unfortunately used Microsoft Authenticator in the past, worked fine. Then I switched phones and COULD NOT recover my 2fa codes despite following the instructions on the web. Google Authenticator is much better for phone and os jumpers like me. Thanks for this app.PaulOne68Version: 4.2.1
No Apple Watch appI need this to work from my Apple Watch. The position I have my online website asks for the Authenticator almost every 30
Minutes and anytime you don’t click the screen for 5 minutes. I can’t keep getting my phone out or using the one on google and you can’t have both set up. The Watch app would be easier for me to look over and have it easily assessable..Gina33853Version: 3.4.0
Export and Import of accountsI changed my mobile phone recently without knowing how to export my existing accounts in the Google Authenticator app to the new device. The process is like a breeze, taking 10 seconds 👍🏻..Eiman RahimiVersion: 3.4.0
It’s goodI like it it’s really good app.MatchgtonVersion: 3.2.0
PeoplePeople who doesn’t know how 2 factor Authenticator app works, and didn’t get to learn how it works before they lose their account, blames the app.
-1 to Google, -5 to people..TeaCrabVersion: 3.1.1
What’s not to love?Has worked flawless every time I’ve ever had to use it, and currently have it set up to authenticate 5 of my various accounts. 2.3 out of 5 stars? Harsh..NaughtySpazzVersion: 3.2.0
Does the thing it does, butWish it also had an Apple Watch function. That’s be the bee’s knees..Chattery TeethVersion: 3.2.0
Works wellIt works well, I haven’t had any issues with it..Rusty-93Version: 3.1.1
¯\_(ツ)_/¯I installed and tried it and nothing was wrong, I don’t see why everyone hates it so much, it seemed pretty easy to use....EpennerVersion: 3.1.1
Awesome appExtremely safe guard all the time , I love it..SojolsojolVersion: 3.4.0
Handy toolPerfect for security.Atwin27Version: 4.2.1
AmazingThis authenticator is amazing.Omgsx8hds7hdsyhdygeygfygefygfVersion: 4.2.1
SecurityGreat.GRPBNLVersion: 4.2.1
Right onGood work Google.MerastyMOTNVersion: 4.2.1
Thank youReally fast.LlamaIsTakenVersion: 4.2.1
Great app but can be finicky when buying new phoneAlmost lost critical account access when had to get a new phone
Definitely make sure u always got a backup.Mcw instr. & mech. serv. inc.Version: 4.2.1
EfficientThis app is quick efficient, it just takes 2 seconds, scan QR code input and your done!.ArtegalariaVersion: 4.2.1
Robust AppThe robustness of Google Authenticator is refreshing!!.Flint XVersion: 4.2.1
Awesome appEasy and with no worries.ZillaZIsTheNameVersion: 4.2.1
THIS!!!Only a couple apps are easy to work with when you change devices. This App is super easy to add new accounts to and will export to your new device so you don’t have to save anything in the cloud. 💖.Waterseeker57Version: 4.2.1
Best authenticator appIt has cloud save feature for the keys!.PixelgmVersion: 4.2.1
It’s so good :)It’s easy to use!.Undiscover4Version: 4.2.1
Easy to UseMy favourite Authenticator app. BUT PLEASE CAN YOU ADD DARK MODE FOR THE ICON!!!!!.198SIXVersion: 4.2.1
BetfuryGood.Paulonski the russianVersion: 4.2.1
AmazingAmazing.SFDBDHEJDKINDNSJVersion: 4.2.1
GreatApp.1 million cards and 1700Version: 4.2.1
WhyyyI really like this app, it is super user friendly and easy to use, but I just don’t understand why there is not a dark mode icon for this app, it stands out and looks really ugly on my home screen. Please fix this..DiaqmondVersion: 4.2.1
Good!Not looking for much so it gets the job done..JhayesonVersion: 4.2.1
Free International Money Transfer 💸Enjoy high maximum transfers into more than 20 currencies while saving up to 90% over local banks! The cheap, fast way to send money abroad. Free transfer up to 500 USD!AdvertorialVersion: 5.0.0
Google Authenticator Negative Reviews
Don’t use Google to auth, just don’t.Why anyone would use a Google app for authenticator anymore is a mystery to me. Google doesn’t really maintain or support apps, they just change them and then you often lose things. Why have an app where you have to be worried about being singed into Google all the time? That’s not something many of us want at baseline. I’m addition you have to worry about transferring accounts and worry about if you forget to handle it right when you get a new device. I regret I ever used Google authenticator on a few accounts only to find out I could no longer do auth on those accounts when Google just changed the whole thing. I had to go to a bunch of trouble to finally to get back into my accounts. I’m so glad my cybersecurity friend got me to convert to using 1Password many years ago. I love it and when it comes to authenticator capability it’s so much easier and makes so much more sense. They make it so easy to add authenticator to a sign in process, and saves the one-time password generator right in the entry in your personal vault along with the sign in for that particular account. This backs up to the cloud and goes with you when go to your new device. They maintain and support the app through the years, you can have it in any device or add it to any browser. No more worrying about being logged into Google and losing your ability to get into your accounts when Google changes their authenticator app..TorhavnVersion: 4.0.1
I Lost EverythingI lost access to my google account I’ve had my entire life after I got a new phone number and had to get a new iCloud account. I didn’t even get a new phone so there’s no “new phone” to get the codes from. In turn I lost access to my google photos account that had over 18,000 photos backed up to it. I lost all of my daughters newborn photos, my wedding photos and countless other memories I will never be able to retrieve. Unless you’re some sort of high level security person you don’t need this app, DO NOT get it. It’s too easy to lose everything. I don’t even remember why I got it because I didn’t need the extra security. I just thought it was a neat feature I guess. Biggest mistake of my life. I’ve also lost access to ALL of my apps and accounts as well. I had to make all new social media accounts and I still can’t get logged back into some apps because I have a new phone number as well. So I’m logged out of my bank app and pharmacy app as well. I’m sick to my stomach. Please just don’t get this app unless you absolutely NEED the extra security. I would give ANYTHING to be able to retrieve the memories and photos I have lost forever..LivNic18Version: 3.4.0
Terrible mfa application. The absolute worst.Use any other MFA app, but this one. It does not save your information. If you change phones or migrate phone platforms, you are completely screwed unless you remove mfa from all your apps before you uninstall the Google Authenticator app. And if you lose your phone, you are just screwed with no recourse.
If you use the Microsoft Authenticator, at least it will remember your information while you are on the same phone platform. But Google? Nope. Don’t even bother to ask for help because all you will receive is arrogant script kiddies belittling you for something you didn’t even know you were supposed to do. I’ll be uninstalling many Google apps in the coming month. I can definitely do without you at least Microsoft has support for the products they make. Imagine if GM made you ask other car owners how to use the windshield wipers, or how to change a tire. Google’s arrogance is amazing. I’ll make use of capitalism and find a better mouse trap..Monster trucks and dogsVersion: 3.2.0
App Deleted ALL My Accounts - STAY AWAYThis app displayed duplicates for all my accounts. Naturally, I deleted all the duplicates. A few days later I was prompted with the “get started” screen, and to my horror ALL of my accounts were deleted(including crypto wallets and other extremely important things). As it turns out, I am not the only one affected. Simply search “Google Authenticator Duplicates iOS 15” online.
I am currently locked out of ALOT of money and several productivity accounts at work and might be completely out of luck. I expected much better from Google and this has only hastened my separation from their products and services. This is inexcusable. Typically I am lenient, but when a product exists to secure your online accounts, it shouldn’t effectively lock you out of them. This is outrageous and it blows my mind that QA did not catch this..MisterBigJakeVersion: 3.2.0
DESERVES 0 STARSDo not get this app!! I’m sure there are other apps that can safely store your information. I got my phone smashed and haven’t been able to retrieve anything, I thought everything saved to my iCloud but nothing was backed up. I had the screenshots from this app but due to have my phone smashed, I obviously can’t see them. I was never sent an email (as they should confirming this service) and have 0 trace of what I used to create this account. You’d think it’d work with a google account but no, it’s like I never had it. I’ve been unable to reach my passwords to accounts I’ve had for years and I have read every site possible with no solution. Google has no contact number to reach when you need help and if they do they just send you to the most unhelpful links. It’s a really unpleasant experience I urge you to not get this app..J0CCCVersion: 3.2.0
Just don’tHeed the warnings of the countless other reviews saying how they lost access to their accounts. The same thing happened to me when I upgraded my phone because, unbeknownst to me, the codes that Google authenticator generates are device specific. Thankfully, I only had one account linked to it, but it was one that was sort of important. Unfortunately, after multiple days of trying a plethora of recovery methods, I ultimately ended up having to have that account permanently deleted.
Of course if you were aware of all this and you were smart and changed your 2FA setting before switching or upgrading devices, then yes, this app is easy to use, safe, and operates as intended.
But save yourself the hassle and use literally any other 2FA method. One of the safest and easiest is your phone number. Also if the account you are using offers backup codes to copy or download when you set up 2FA, I can not stress this enough, SAVE THOSE CODES!!!
TLDR: This app operates as intended but if you switch devices you will lose those authentication codes which makes it incredibly unreliable, and you may, like so many others, end up permanently losing access to your account that are linked to it. Please don’t use this app..Reviewer 795Version: 3.4.0
After 2 years…After two years using Authenticator I am very disappointed in the lack of communication in the lack of support and basic usage steps.
I have lost over 8 accounts, imagine being hassled to set up two factor authentication every time you log in only to lose your accounts if you ever upgrade phones. Not once or anywhere on the app does it say that you will need both phones present to transfer the codes. I run a business through Facebook which generates over 500k in revenue a year. Imagine losing an account with that much value. Luckily I have things in place to keep up advertising.
That being said I will be contacting my lawyer and looking into what options are available to me maybe even look into class actions as I see many others are having the same issue.Codgod1335Version: 3.3.0
I also lost everything.Oh wonder my phone had broken and had to go through a whole process of rebuilding not a going to be specific, but all my data was lost, everything was fine since all I had was pictures and nothing important that I couldn’t get back but guess what, my first ever account I had created with all my info and logins which I couldn’t log back into, such a shame really. Tried looking for any chat support or anything, didn’t find any, and for those saying “this is exactly what we want”, no, I’d at least me expecting a better support from you guys by now since you’d know this would be happening. Many other apps have already a support system that could help return your account if something like this ever is to happen but I guess you guys are too good for it huh..TheAdsHaterVersion: 4.0.2
Do not use this app!If you are in a situation where you are forced to use this app, be sure to keep backup codes so that you can access whatever applications you need to access in the event you lose your connection with Google authenticator. Because of a recent Facebook debacle and not knowing that it was necessary to save recovery codes with Google authenticator, I am now unable to access a 10+ year old Facebook account that includes some business connections. Facebook‘s issues are on them however, since I have a long-standing Google account, I don’t understand how I am unable to recover the connection with my Facebook account to allow me to get back in again. Is google authenticator completely unaffiliated with Google? Very disappointing and in 2021, I can’t believe things are this difficult for the average every day user..DoggettallVersion: 3.1.1
Randomly deleted all codesI opened my phone today to export codes to my husbands new phone. The Authenticator app said it was being upgraded and prompted me to login to my gmail account, which I had never done before. After I logged in, all of the codes I had on my phone previously were deleted with no way to recover them. This is an absolutely terrible design flaw.
Also, why has google started to save these codes to the cloud? The entire point of the app is to create a security measure that can’t be hacked. Now if someone hacks my email they have access to the login email, can reset the password via email, and has access to the Authenticator codes on google cloud. It is no longer 2 factor authentication if they get access to anything with just access to your email..MelB725Version: 4.0.2
Do NOT use this app - use any other alternativeThe reason I simple: since there is no way to back up your accounts: if the app doesn't start, crashes, or worse, you have NO way to get your accounts back. This is basically what happened to me. First, after upgrading to iOS 15, I noticed that all my accounts got duplicated for no reason. Then, I tried to remove each duplicate, and at some point the app crashed and all my account got erased in the process!!! Thankfully, I had tested - a few months ago - the account transfer feature, to see if I could transfer to my iPad,l. So I had a "backup" of sorts on my iPad and wasn't locked out of my accounts. But if I had not done that, everything would have been lost and I would be locked out of everything!!!.Manu_9804Version: 3.2.0
Risky Choice for 2FAUsing an authenticator app for 2FA is seen as a top choice for securing access to sensitive accounts over other methods. However, when the app stops loading, and instead crashes on open, you can easily lose access to these accounts if you’re relying on the app for 2FA and you don’t have backup methods configured (or physically accessible to you in the moment). This app is quite terrible in terms of its support and user experience. It did work, at one point, and now it doesn’t which means that I can never rely on it again. I’ve been slowing shifting to the Microsoft Authenticator app which has a superior user experience and feature set, is substantially more reliable, and works. I would not use this app if I were you..ChopinrlzVersion: 3.1.1
Use Microsoft Authenticator InsteadI wrote this review to give some people some advice. I’m rating this app five stars just so people can see this review, but in reality, this is garbage. I don’t use this app because I actually don’t know how to use it, but I’m starting to think that I probably shouldn’t try to learn it. You see, there are about a million reviews(ok maybe not a million)from people who used this saying they lost access to their accounts, and couldn’t get them back, and judging from how many reviews there are, I don’t think they’re lying. I use Microsoft Authenticator for my accounts which in my opinion is WAY better than this trash. So instead, I recommend you use Microsoft Authenticator, not this one. Please try doing what I recommended, and that’s all..HassansonyVersion: 4.0.2
Wiped all my 2FA codesLike many other reviewers, it finally happened to me: Last week, I opened the Google Auth app to see all my accounts and codes duplicated. I went through and removed the dupes, and everything was fine until today, when I launched the app to find an empty “welcome” screen and no codes.
This is the same phone I’ve had for years, the app hadn’t updated in weeks or months… no clue what caused this, and I’ve used this app daily for years… until this happened out of the blue.
User beware - if you use this app, make extra sure you save your backup codes and have a backup auth method on all your 2FA accounts. Personally, I’m using this as an opportunity to migrate to another auth app that allows secure backups and no reports of random resets..G_harpVersion: 3.2.0
They removed the option to use this for Gmail, so why bother?The title says it all…
They are so interested in tying all your personal info to everything you do, that they will not allow you to use this app unless they have some other piece of personal info tied to your account first!
When you try to set up two-factor on a new Gmail account, the option to use authenticator codes as a method never shows up unless they have either a phone number, another email, (which also probably has a phone number attached), or unless you tie your account to some device you own so Google can track it (they call that a prompt…)
SHADY!.Just an FYI...Version: 4.1.0
Use something else!!! (0 stars if I could )I recently upgraded my phone and none of my data transferred nor does this app offer cloud backups,I’ve had to contact support for each of my accounts and have them turn off 2FA for me. The fact that this is a google app and I have to use my Gmail to use this app should mean cloud backups for that account. And yeah I get there’s a transfer but that completely useless because you have to have the previous phone data still in tact to even use, when most people just whip the phone and give it to a family member or sell it online. Look for something else I recommend Authy or Microsoft’s Authenticator..Nyx._.Version: 3.3.0
WorthlessThis Google Authenticator app is the most unreliable and untrustworthy app in existence of history. It doesn’t even deserve 1 star, it deserves -10 stars, (that’s negative 10). After you get the key setup for whatever you need it for, the codes won’t work later down the road. They might work at first but they stop!!! I have to set the app up on a new device and renter the key just so I can have access. This app gets compromised and it’s unavoidable. I hate this app and will never trust it to be what I need it to be. My advice, access whatever you have this app connected to and remove its accessibility and delete the app. I have an iPhone too..Jeremy E. RiceVersion: 4.2.1
My god googleThe process of setting up an Authenticator app must have been created by a monkey. Tried to set it up…oh wait I’m in the wrong account. Let me just simply change accounts after all it’s easy in a desktop. No no no not that simple. It was so convoluted that I had to google it. Open browser, select settings. Rather than there being a sign out button like a rational person would assume I have to click on my account name. Still no sign out button. Oh but we’re not done yet. Not by a long shot.
Scroll allllll the way down. Click manage accounts on this device and then sign out. Next comes the best part.
I click sign in and google gloriously gives one option to select…the account I just signed out of. I then have to click on the account that I just signed out of to enter a hidden super duper secret screen where I can finally see my other accounts.
Whoever invented this UI should have their head examined..D hi djjdjdVersion: 4.1.0
Loses your codesThis is the worst out of all the many authentication apps that exist. If you ever accidentally delete this app from your device or get a new phone or anything like that, it will not restore your codes when you reinstall the app. This means if you used it for 2FA for something like Facebook for example, you will be permanently locked out of that and any other accounts you may have used it for. This is the ONLY authentication app I have ever used which has this horrible issue and they do not warn you about this up front. So I am mow locked out of my accounts with no resolution. Avoid this app like the plague..Mattman2812Version: 4.0.2
Missing Codes after Cloud SyncOnly using this app because employer mandated. I opened the app to find the majority of my tokens missing. Apparently my local instance was somehow “backed up” to one of the Google accounts authenticated in my phone but this process hid a bunch of existing tokens. If this happens to you, just click the account icon, then “use without an account”, and sign out of all devices, and your codes will be visible again. Garbage UX from a garbage company that can’t do anything right except search and even that has gotten unusable. If you have the choice, use literally any other 2fa app available..DangeruVersion: 4.2.1
Random 2fa delete.I had been using this app for a year now I think. Randomly I updated it and my 2FA accounts were duplicated, so I had to delete the duplicated ones. Today I was doing nothing at all with my phone, didn’t restart it, didn’t delete anything, didn’t update anything (I have auto updates disabled) and suddenly when I get into the app because I had to use it, everything got deleted, as if it was my first time using the app.
I changed to Microsoft app now, there is no backup method in Google Authenticator. I also had to delete my Sentri account which had an open application because of this app..HiMeh-Version: 3.2.0
GOOGLE AUTHENTICATOR deleted my accounts, after duplicating them.One day like any other I decide to enter my GOOGLE AUTHENTICATOR and all my key (accounts) were repeated, so I decide to delete the copy or repetition of each account, and everything remains as always, or as it should be, I leave google 2FA and when I go back in to my surprise all the accounts I had were deleted, therefore I have lost all my 2FA passwords, since Google AUTHENTICATOR made the Serious mistake of duplicating my accounts, and then deleting them when they were normal, I hope it will Somehow the support can help me, since it was the App itself that eliminated them..Go CubaVersion: 3.3.0
This is utter crap. Locks yourself outI can’t believe I’m having to write a review. I’ve tried time and time again to work with this STUPID 2 way authenticating crap. The codes don’t work and I’ve tried every troubleshooting instructions I’ve found on the internet and yet nothing works. Because I have a new device, I can’t access my old codes. And now I’m locked out of my own accounts and can’t get in. The only way this is going to be fixed is if you throw this entire process into a fire. Or if you’re lucky, MAYBE someone can help you. I JUST want to get into my accounts! Is that too much to ask?!.AlphahannahVersion: 3.4.0
Bad DesignGoogle, just because you’re user base is FORCED to use this product doesn’t mean you should do the bare minimum. Did the developers think we would only need to store 10-20 accounts?
One star review until there is a way to organize accounts by folder/category and export more than 10 accounts at a time.
Come on! This is basic UI/UX stuff here. When you have a lot of accounts loaded it takes forever to find anything. And why would anyone only want to backup 10 accounts at a time? You should allow backup of All accounts or select accounts..John-Paul NeilstonVersion: 3.1.1
The worst Authenticator app ever. Tokens get removed by themselves.You have all heard of complaints that the app does not allow you to migrate your Authenticator tokens over to a new phone or other device. This is unfortunately expected with this app. Use Authy if you need to be able to back up and transfer 2 factor authentication tokens.
The real issue came in after the iOS 15 update. The app decided to add duplicate tokens to my Authenticator app. Meaning I had 2 codes for 1 account. Logically as one would I removed one (1) token out of the app and continued with my day.
2 days later the app randomly decided to delete ALL 6 of my tokens. Meaning I had to re set up 2 factor authentication on 6 different websites and services.
TL;DR this app is broken. Tokens (2 factor authentication accounts) get removed by themselves magically. The app has not been updated in months and the developers lack the brain cells to update it and fix bugs..DkrkdkVersion: 3.2.0
Lacks FunctionalityThis authentication app will work but lacks functionality when being used as MFA for multiple sources. While some of the issue is with the sources not setting up their QR Codes and/or URLs correctly and either leaving a default name or email address this app also doesn’t have the ability to rename the authentication tokens. This makes it harder to locate the correct for accounts not normally used or when you have both private and corporate accounts for the same source..Dragon21riderVersion: 3.4.0
Phone Change/broken old phoneI changed my phone 4 days ago and was not able to export Authenticator from the old phone because it was the last day for the return. Now i can not export that phone even though i. Cleaned everything. And due to this i cant use my accounts..FfeyzVersion: 3.1.1
App won’t work!Had this app for a couple years and all of a sudden it won’t open. Can’t play my game without entering my Authenticator code. Please fix this..HahahshhdlbzywjVersion: 3.1.1
Destroyed my BusinessGoogle Authenticator destroyed my business on Meta Facebook ads. The Authenticator didn’t coincide with my meta account and Meta denied me Service and Google as no recourse..Jai JindVersion: 4.2.1
Codes didn’t workCodes didn’t work. Tried setting this up 3 times following all instructions and codes never verify my account and let me in..Kyragusmus1919Version: 4.2.1
???Lost all my old codes because of this update, thanks a lot google, great job.TR 408Version: 3.1.1
Absolute piece of garbage trashcan appUpdated to ios 15, got duplicate entries, deleted the duplicates. ALL my 2FA is gone. Beyond mad this is absolute trash..StepyrfdahngyVersion: 3.2.0
Lost all my codesI opened the app today and magically all codes are gone and the app is asking me to “Get Started”. Now I need to go through the process of resetting all 2FA protected services. Thanks google..TipaspaVersion: 3.2.0
Signed outThe app randomly signed me out after over a year of use and to get back in, I need an old device. I dont have an old device, this is my device.Stay.-Version: 3.4.0
I’d Give Zero if I CouldThe app itself works but after getting my phone replaced and restored from an iCloud backup it does not keep the codes. Almost all of my accounts are inaccessible , including my Snapchat with years and years of memories. I don’t ever write reviews but I want to prevent someone else from going through what i did. Do NOT use this app. Use any other form of 2FA; there isn’t even customer service..TsbrettVersion: 3.2.0
Dont get thisWorse app ever..OmghahwjfiVersion: 3.1.1
I hate being asked to rateI am trying to add an account and this prompt pops up interrupting my experience. Stupid design..Stuck-using-slackVersion: 4.2.1
Code not workingCodes keep saying invalid whenever I use the codes generated by the app so it became useless and wasted my time..BroodyBaToodyVersion: 4.2.1
ErrorI am not getting my google verification code.MarkhorbbbbbbVersion: 4.2.1
The worstDifficult, confusing, utter nonsense. This is an app that proves Satan and hell are real… seriously what’s the point. Use the text message on your phone for 2 step verification. Save your soul..SpfxdudeVersion: 4.2.1
Scanner for QR code errorI can’t scan with mg QR code and jt heavimy bothers me because I need it for school.NeddleBeedleVersion: 4.2.1
Lost all my codesAll but one of my codes just disappeared.TherealjimloveVersion: 4.2.1
RIDICULOUSIt’s ridiculous that an account can still be attached to an authenticator app that wants you to enter a phone number that hasn’t existed in 10 years as verification..Lyssk34334Version: 4.2.1
Deleted all my MFA keysSuddenly, as in between copying two MFA keys within a minute, my app went blank.
Don’t trust the product.._unrVersion: 4.2.1
2 factor to enter AuthenticatorLogging into my Gmail, I get requested for google authenticator. When enter google authenticator, it requires 2 factor via google authenticator to log into google authenticator. 🤦♂️.RotairVersion: 4.2.1
No export option & no dark mode iconPlease provide the option to export/back up the original setup keys, or at least let users see the original keys. Other authenticators have the feature.
Also, please update the app icon that supports dark mode..V0ncvVersion: 4.2.1
Transfert téléphone puis données effacéesJ’ai changé de téléphone récemment et j’ai transféré mes données Google authentificator sur ce dernier. Tout allait bien pendant plusieurs heures puis j’ai eu une notification que toutes mes données s’effaçaient dans l’application. En 1 seconde tous les comptes calibrés se sont effacés..Gclair001Version: 4.2.1
TerribleWorst app I’ve ever used can’t even get into my taxes now.999nunyobusinessVersion: 4.2.1
HelpAll my codes disappeared?????.Gwen AdoraVersion: 4.2.1
Trop longTrop long.Mornif snifVersion: 4.2.1
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