What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and why First Connect requires it
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a second check at login that confirms it's really you. Even if someone got hold of your password, they couldn't get into your account without that second factor.
How sign-in works now
To sign in to First Connect, you'll provide three things:
- Your email address
- Your password (something you know)
- A 6-digit code from an authenticator app or sent to your phone by text message (something you have)
Why we require it
- Regulatory compliance. MFA is becoming the standard across the industry. More carriers are requiring it, and the regulatory environment is moving in the same direction. We’re working to stay ahead of where the industry is headed.
- Account safety. Most account takeovers happen because a password was stolen, guessed, or reused. A second factor stops nearly all of them.
What counts as a second factor
First Connect supports two options. You can pick the one that works best for you, or set up both as a backup.
- Authenticator app — a free app on your phone (Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator, 1Password) that generates a 6-digit code that changes every 30 seconds. Recommended.
- Text message — we send a 6-digit code to your mobile number.
Email isn't an option for your second factor. If someone got into your email, they could also reset your password — using email for both wouldn't add real protection.
What if I don't have my phone?
During setup, you'll be given a recovery code. Save it somewhere safe (a password manager is ideal). If you ever lose your phone, you can use that code to sign in.
If you lose your phone and your recovery code, contact support. We'll verify your identity and reset your MFA so you can set it up again.
Related articles
i. MFA Overview
ii. What is Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) and why First Connect requires it
iii. Creating a password
iv. How to set up Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) with an authenticator app
v. How to set up Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) with Text Message
vi. How to reset or change your password
vii. What to do if you lose access to your factor
viii. How to add or disable a Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) method