> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.paintscout.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.paintscout.com/support/resources/frequently-asked-questions/multi-factor-authenticator-mfa-setup.md).

# Multi-Factor Authenticator (MFA) setup

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a mandatory security feature for all PaintScout accounts. After entering your password, you verify your identity with a one-time code sent by text message or generated by an authenticator app. MFA is only prompted when PaintScout detects a new device, new IP address, or other risk factors.

## Before You Start

You'll need:

* Access to the email address on your PaintScout account
* A mobile phone (for SMS) or an authenticator app (Google Authenticator, Authy, or similar)

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
**Open the Setup Link**

Click the link in your PaintScout security email. This will take you to the account security setup page.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Haven't received the email yet?** We're sending in batches, so it's likely still on its way. In the meantime:

* Check your spam or junk folder for an email from PaintScout
* Make sure the email address on your account is up to date

If it's been more than 24 hours and you still haven't heard anything, reach out and we'll get it sorted.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Reset Your Password**

You'll be prompted to create a new password. Enter your new password and confirm it, then continue. Once you put in a new password, you'll receive a success screen and then be taken to the normal PaintScout login page after a couple seconds.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Log in to your PaintScout account**

Use the password you just created to log in to your account.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Choose Your MFA Method**

Once logged in, you'll be asked how you'd like to receive your verification codes. Select one option:

* **Text message (SMS)** — a code is sent to your phone each time you log in
* **Authenticator app** — an app on your phone generates a code each time you log in

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Text Message (SMS)" %}

1. Select **Text Message**
2. Enter your mobile phone number including area code
3. You'll receive a 6-digit code via text
4. Enter the code to confirm and complete setup
   {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Authenticator App" %}

1. Select **Authenticator App**
2. Open your authenticator app (Google Authenticator, Authy, or any TOTP-compatible app)
3. Tap **Add Account** or the **+** icon
4. Scan the QR code shown on screen
5. Enter the 6-digit code from the app to confirm and complete setup
   {% endtab %}
   {% endtabs %}
   {% endstep %}
   {% endstepper %}

## Logging In With MFA

Each time you log in, after entering your password you'll be prompted to enter your verification code. Check your texts or open your authenticator app to get it.

On new sign ups and subsequent login attempts, PaintScout will determine whether you need to do MFA. Common cases are: if it is not setup, if your device looks new/risky, or if your ip address looks new/risky.

## Is MFA Mandatory?

Yes — MFA is mandatory for all users. The good news is you won't need to authenticate every time; only when something looks new or suspicious on your account (new device, new IP address, etc.).

## Lost Access to Your MFA Method?

If you can't access your phone or authenticator app, email us at <support@paintscout.com> for help recovering your account.

## Related articles

* [How to Change Your Password](/support/resources/frequently-asked-questions/how-to-change-your-password.md) — Reset a forgotten password or change your current one
* [Account & Setup](/support/resources/frequently-asked-questions/account-and-setup.md) — Find more answers about account settings and setup


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