Secure with Two-Factor Authentication

What is Two-Factor Authentication?

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or two-step verification is a security process that requires two different forms of identification to access an online account.

To use 2FA with your RescueTime account, you'll need these two forms of identification:

• Email address and password
• Authentication app or iOS/MacOS device

RescueTime highly recommends enabling two-factor authentication to secure your data and protect it from unauthorized access.

How to set up Two-Factor Authentication

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 the 2FA setup and for signing in at www.rescuetime.com. This article lists several options.

• If you use Google Authenticator, follow these instructions for Android and iOS.
• MacOS/iOS users can skip this step, as Apple devices have built-in 2FA in Settings > Passwords.

2. Enable 2FA in RescueTime

1. Go to Settings > Account.
2. Scroll down and toggle Enable two-factor authentication to the right.
3. A 2FA setup modal will open with three options to enable 2FA.

3. Complete the Setup

Once your 2FA setup is complete, you’ll see:

• A confirmation banner at the top of your account page.
• A green toggle indicating that 2FA is enabled.

4. Test Your 2FA Login

1. Log out of your RescueTime account.
2. Log back in with your email and password.
3. Enter the authentication code from your app or iOS/MacOS device.

Options for Two-Factor Authentication

1. You have three ways to set up 2FA:

   Option 1: Scan a QR Code (Recommended)

   Using your authentication app:

   1. Scan the QR code displayed in the setup modal.
   2. An authentication code will be generated.
   3. Enter this code in the setup modal and click Verify.

For iOS Devices:

1. Open your camera and scan the QR code.
2. Tap the popup that appears to open Settings > Passwords.
3. Enter your passcode (if applicable).
4. In Passwords, select rescuetime.com. If it’s not listed, tap + to add it.
5. Tap Set Up Verification Code, then:
   • Enter Setup Key → Paste the Shared Secret Code from the setup modal.
   • Scan QR Code → Scan the QR code again.
6. A Verification Code will appear. Enter it in the setup modal and hit Verify.

Option 2: Use the Initialize Auth Link (For Authenticator Apps & Apple Devices)

For devices with an authenticator app:

1. Click the Initialize Auth link in the 2FA setup modal.
2. Your authentication app will open and add RescueTime.
3. Open the app, retrieve your code, and enter it in the setup modal.

For macOS Devices:

1. Click the Initialize Auth link in the 2FA setup modal.
2. When prompted, open System Preferences > Passwords.
3. Enter your Mac password (if applicable).
4. Select rescuetime.com and click Add Verification Code.
   • If RescueTime is not listed, click + to add your login details first.
5. A Verification Code will appear. Enter it in the setup modal and hit Verify.

If you don't have your RescueTime account saved here, then click the  + button and add in your RescueTime sign-in information.

Option 3: Enter the Shared Secret Code Manually

Some authenticator apps may require manual entry. Enter:

• Account Name: RescueTime
• Your Key: Shared Secret Code
• Type of Key: Time-based

Once entered, a Verification Code will be generated. Enter it in the setup modal and hit Verify.

Using a Mac to Set Up 2FA with Your Shared Secret Code:

1. Go to System Preferences > Passwords.
2. Select rescuetime.com and click Edit.
3. Tap Enter Setup Key, then paste the Shared Secret Code.
4. Click OK, then Save.
5. A Verification Code will appear. Enter it in the setup modal and hit Verify.

How to Troubleshoot Two-Factor Authentication

Resetting 2FA (Follow These Steps in Order to Avoid Being Locked Out):

1. Disable 2FA in your Account Settings.
2. Remove RescueTime from your authentication app.
   • MacOS: Go to System Preferences > Passwords → Select rescuetime.com → Click Edit → Delete Verification Code.
   • iOS: Go to Settings > Passwords → Select rescuetime.com → Click Edit → Tap Delete Verification Code.
3. Re-enable 2FA following steps 1–5 above.

Note: If the 2FA setup modal does not appear after re-enabling, refresh your web browser.