Switching to a new phone is exciting but can quickly become stressful when you realise it means moving all your multi-factor authentication (MFA) tokens. If you’ve ever had to scramble to re-activate MFA across apps and services, you know how much of a headache it can be. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are smarter ways to manage your MFA tokens and ensure a smooth transition to your new device.
Why MFA is a Must-Have
Before diving into the solutions, it’s worth revisiting why MFA is critical. MFA adds an additional layer of security beyond just passwords. It ensures your accounts remain protected even if someone gets hold of your login credentials. It’s a simple, effective way to keep your data safe, but only if the setup is maintained correctly, especially when changing devices.
The Hassle of Migrating MFA Tokens
Many people use MFA apps like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or others to generate time-based one-time passwords (TOTP). These apps tie your tokens to your specific device. When you upgrade to a new phone, your MFA tokens don’t automatically transfer. This means you have to manually set them up again. This process can be time-consuming, especially if you use MFA for multiple services.
Steps to Simplify the Migration Process
Here are some tips to help you avoid the hassle of changing MFA tokens when you switch to a new phone:
- Use a Cloud-Backup MFA App – Many MFA apps now offer cloud backup features. Apps like Microsoft Authenticator, Authy, and LastPass Authenticator allow you to back up your tokens to the cloud securely. When you switch to a new device, you can log in and restore your tokens without having to reconfigure them one by one. Before upgrading your phone, ensure you’ve enabled this feature in your MFA app.
- Keep Backup Codes Handy – Most services that use MFA provide backup codes when you first enable it. These are one-time-use codes you can keep in a safe place, allowing you to regain access to your account even if you lose access to your MFA app. Before making the switch, ensure you’ve stored these codes securely so you can still log in without your old device.
- Enable MFA Across Devices – Some MFA tools, like Authy, allow you to use the same MFA tokens on multiple devices. By enabling this feature, you ensure that your MFA tokens remain available on other devices if one device is lost, damaged, or replaced. This makes the transition between phones much easier.
- Transfer Your MFA Manually (When Necessary) – If you’re using an app that doesn’t offer cloud backup or multi-device support, you may need to manually transfer your MFA tokens. Before switching devices, log in to each service and temporarily disable MFA. Then, set it up again on your new phone. This process can be a bit annoying, but it makes sure your tokens are correctly tied to your new device.
- Consider a Hardware Token – For those who prefer not to rely on an app, hardware tokens like YubiKey provide an excellent alternative. These small physical devices store your MFA credentials and can be plugged into multiple devices. When you upgrade your phone, there’s no need to change anything since the hardware token continues to work without any reconfiguration.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Preparation is key to avoiding the pain of migrating MFA tokens. Follow the steps above before you upgrade to a new phone so you’re not scrambling to restore access to critical services. With cloud backup, backup codes, and multi-device setups, switching to a new phone doesn’t have to disrupt your workflow.
