Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication adds a second layer of security to your RescueTime account.
We highly recommend enabling it to help protect your data from unauthorized access.
Two-factor authentication (2FA), also called two-step verification, is a security process that requires two different forms of identification to access an online account. To use 2FA with RescueTime, you'll need:
Your email address and password
An authentication app, or an iOS/macOS device
1. Install an authentication app (if applicable)
An authentication app generates time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) for secure logins. You'll need one to complete 2FA setup and to sign in at www.rescuetime.com. Several apps work for this, including Google Authenticator.
💡 macOS and iOS users can skip this step. Apple devices have built-in 2FA support under Settings → Passwords.
2. Enable 2FA in RescueTime
Go to Settings → Account.
Scroll down and toggle on Enable two-factor authentication.
A 2FA setup window opens with three setup options.
3. Complete the setup
Once setup is complete, you'll see a confirmation banner at the top of your account page and a green toggle indicating 2FA is enabled.
4. Test your 2FA login
Log out of your RescueTime account.
Log back in with your email and password.
Enter the authentication code from your app or iOS/macOS device.
There are three ways to complete the 2FA setup from the modal in step 2 above.
Option 1: Scan a QR code Recommended
Using an authentication app:
Scan the QR code displayed in the setup window.
An authentication code is generated.
Enter this code in the setup window and click Verify.
For iOS devices:
Open your camera and scan the QR code.
Tap the pop-up that appears to open Settings → Passwords.
Enter your passcode if prompted.
In Passwords, select rescuetime.com. If it isn't listed, tap + to add it.
Tap Set Up Verification Code, then either enter the setup key by pasting the Shared Secret Code from the setup window, or scan the QR code again.
A verification code appears. Enter it in the setup window and click Verify.
Option 2: Use the Initialize Auth link for authenticator apps & Apple devices
For devices with an authenticator app:
Click the Initialize Auth link in the 2FA setup window.
Your authentication app opens and adds RescueTime.
Open the app, retrieve your code, and enter it in the setup window.
For macOS devices:
Click the Initialize Auth link in the 2FA setup window.
When prompted, open System Settings → Passwords.
Enter your Mac password if prompted.
Select rescuetime.com and click Add Verification Code. If RescueTime isn't listed, click + to add your login details first.
A verification code appears. Enter it in the setup window and click Verify.
Option 3: Enter the shared secret code manually
Some authenticator apps require manual entry. Enter:
Account Name: RescueTime
Your Key: Shared Secret Code
Type of Key: Time-based
Once entered, a verification code is generated. Enter it in the setup window and click Verify.
Using a Mac to set up 2FA with your shared secret code:
Go to System Settings → Passwords.
Select rescuetime.com and click Edit.
Tap Enter Setup Key, then paste the Shared Secret Code.
Click OK, then Save.
A verification code appears. Enter it in the setup window and click Verify.
Resetting 2FA
Follow these steps in order to avoid being locked out of your account.
Disable 2FA in your Account Settings.
Remove RescueTime from your authentication app.
macOS: System Settings → Passwords → select rescuetime.com → Edit → Delete Verification Code.
iOS: Settings → Passwords → select rescuetime.com → Edit → Delete Verification Code.
Re-enable 2FA following the setup steps above.
If the 2FA setup window doesn't appear after re-enabling, refresh your web browser.