How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on Your Holidu Account

To keep your account and data secure, Holidu uses Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for all hosts that do not use social logins (where 2FA is also offered, for example by Gmail). This extra layer of security protects your account even if someone else knows your password. 2FA is mandatory for all hosts with published properties.

What is 2FA?

Two-Factor Authentication requires two things to log in:

1. First factor: Your email and password
2. Second factor: A one-time verification code, sent via one of the following methods:

• SMS
• Email
• Authenticator app (e.g., Google Authenticator, Authy)

You can set up multiple methods for backup access. However, you can only use one instance of each method. For example, only one phone number or one authenticator app can be registered at a time.

Where to Set Up 2FA

1. Log in to your Holidu Host Account. You may be prompted to set up 2FA immediately after login. If not, continue to step 2.
2. Go to: Profile Picture Menu, and then Security
3. Click Configure next to the authentication method(s) you want to activate.

Choose Your 2FA Method

Method 1: SMS (Mobile Phone)

1. Select SMS from the list.

1. Enter the phone number you want to use and click Get SMS Code.

1. Enter the 6-digit code you receive and click Verify.

1. You'll see a confirmation message once the setup is complete. Congratulations, your account and your data are now secured!

Method 2: Email

1. Select Email from the list.
2. Confirm the email address associated with your Holidu account. This is the address where you'll receive verification codes.
3. Click Get Email Code to send a verification code to your email.
4. Check your email inbox (including spam folder) for the 6-digit code.
5. Enter the 6-digit code in the verification field and click Verify.
6. You'll see a confirmation message once the setup is complete. Congratulations, your account and your data are now secured!

Method 3: Authenticator App (Recommended)

An authenticator app is a small program you install on your smartphone or tablet. It generates a new 6-digit security code every 30 seconds that only you can see. Unlike text messages or emails, the app works even without internet or mobile signal, because the codes are created directly on your device.

1. Download an app like Google Authenticator (Android | Apple) or Authy (Android | Apple).
2. Select Authenticator App from the list.

1. Scan the QR code displayed on your screen with your authenticator app (or use a manual code if scanning doesn't work).

1. Enter the 6-digit code generated by the app, give the device a name (e.g., "My mobile phone"), and click Submit.
2. You'll see a confirmation message once setup is complete. Congratulations, your account and your data are now secured!
3. Authenticator apps generate codes locally, so they work without internet or mobile signal.

After Setup

From now on, logging in requires:

1. Entering your password
2. Entering the 6-digit code from your chosen 2FA method

You can manage your 2FA settings at any time via the Security section in your Holidu Account settings.

Tips for Success

• We recommend setting up the Authenticator App method as your primary option, since it works without internet or mobile signal.
• Enable at least two different methods in case you lose access to one.
• Remember: Only one instance of each method can be used (one phone number, one authenticator app, one email).
• Save your backup codes in a secure location if your method provides them.
• Keep your authenticator app updated on your device.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why do I need to set up 2FA?

To protect your account from unauthorized access, especially if your password is ever compromised. 2FA adds an extra layer of security that makes it significantly harder for someone to gain access to your account without your knowledge.

I do not see an option to set up 2FA in my account

Two-Factor Authentication is only available if you use a combination of email and password to login. If you are using a login method like Facebook or Google, you are already secure, since these providers also offer Two-Factor Authentication on their side.

What if I lose access to my phone or email?

You can use a backup method or contact Holidu support to recover access. We recommend setting up a secondary verification method to avoid any incidents. This way, you'll always have an alternative method available.

Can I skip setting up 2FA?

Only temporarily. Two-Factor Authentication becomes mandatory once you publish a property on your Holidu account.

How long does setup take?

Less than a minute in most cases. The entire setup process is straightforward and takes only a few quick steps.

Can I use more than one method?

Yes! You can activate more than one method for backup purposes. This ensures you always have an alternative way to verify your identity if one method becomes temporarily unavailable.

What if I don't receive the code?

Check your signal strength if you're using SMS, or check the time sync on your device if you're using an authenticator app. Still no luck? Contact Holidu support to get help. Our team is available to assist you with any verification issues.

Do collaborators need to activate 2FA too?

Yes, if they have access to published properties, they are required to set up Two-Factor Authentication to ensure the security of your account and listings.

Can I change my 2FA method later?

Yes, you can go to Settings > Security at any time to update, add, or remove authentication methods.

What should I do if I lose my phone with the authenticator app?

If you have a backup method enabled (such as SMS or email), use that to log in. Once logged in, you can remove the old authenticator app and set up a new one on your new device. If you don't have a backup method, contact Holidu support immediately for assistance.

Are there backup codes I can use?

Some authenticator apps provide backup codes during setup. Make sure to store these codes in a secure location separate from your phone. They can be used to access your account if you lose your primary device.