Why do I need an Authenticator app?

Why MFA Authenticator Apps Are the Most Secure

They Require Something You Have

Authenticator apps (like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Authy) generate time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) on a device in your physical possession — usually your phone. This means even if an attacker steals your password, they still can't log in without your device.

They Work Offline (No SMS Vulnerabilities)

Unlike SMS-based MFA, authenticator apps don’t rely on cell networks. This protects you from:

• SIM swapping attacks
• Phone number porting
• SMS interception

These are real-world attacks that criminals often use to hijack SMS codes.

Time-Limited and Unique Codes

The codes generated change every 30 seconds and are only valid for a short time. This reduces the window of opportunity for an attacker to use a stolen code.

Resistant to Phishing (Compared to SMS or Email)

While not totally phishing-proof, authenticator apps are far harder to trick users with than SMS or email-based MFA, where fake login pages might fool users into entering a code.

If paired with phishing-resistant MFA like passkeys or FIDO2 hardware tokens, you get even more robust protection — but authenticator apps are still a huge step up from passwords alone.

More Control, Less Dependence on Carriers

You control the app on your device. There's no risk of your carrier making a mistake or being socially engineered. This puts you in full control of your second factor.