How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on Your Holidu Account

To keep your account and data secure, Holidu uses Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for all hosts that do not use social logins (where 2FA is also offered, for example by Gmail). This extra layer of security protects your account even if someone else knows your password. 2FA is mandatory for all hosts with published properties.

What is 2FA?

Two-Factor Authentication requires two things to log in:

1. First factor: Your email and password
2. Second factor: A one-time verification code, sent via one of the following methods:
   • SMS
   • Email
   • Authenticator app (e.g., Google Authenticator, Authy)

You can set up multiple methods for backup access. However, you can only use one instance of each method—for example, only one phone number or one authenticator app can be registered at a time.

Where to Set Up 2FA

1. Log in to your Holidu Host Account. You may be prompted to set up 2FA immediately after login. If not, continue to step 2.
2. Go to: Profile Picture Menu, and then Security
3. Click Configure next to the authentication method(s) you want to activate.

Choose Your 2FA Method

Method 1: SMS (Mobile Phone)

1. Select SMS from the list.
2. Enter the phone number you want to use and click Get SMS Code.
3. Enter the 6-digit code you receive and click Verify.
4. You'll see a confirmation message once the setup is complete. Congratulations, your account and your data are now secured!

Method 2: Email

1. Select Email from the list.
2. Confirm the email address where you want to receive verification codes and click Get Email Code.
3. Check your email inbox for the 6-digit code.
4. Enter the code in the verification field and click Verify.
5. You'll see a confirmation message once the setup is complete. Congratulations, your account and your data are now secured!

Method 3: Authenticator App – Recommended

An authenticator app is a small program you install on your smartphone or tablet. It generates a new 6-digit security code every 30 seconds that only you can see. Unlike text messages or emails, the app works even without internet or mobile signal, because the codes are created directly on your device.

1. Download an app like Google Authenticator (Android | Apple) or Authy (Android | Apple).
2. Select Authenticator App from the list.
3. Scan the QR code displayed on your screen (or use a manual code if scanning doesn't work).
4. Enter the 6-digit code generated by the app, give the device a name (e.g., "My mobile phone"), and click Submit.
5. You'll see a confirmation message once setup is complete. Congratulations, your account and your data are now secured!
6. Authenticator apps generate codes locally, so they work without internet or mobile signal.

After Setup

From now on, logging in requires:

1. Entering your password
2. Entering the 6-digit code from your chosen 2FA method

You can manage your 2FA settings at any time via the Security section in your Holidu Account settings.

Tips for Success

• We recommend starting with the Authenticator App as your primary method, as it's the most secure and works without internet or mobile signal.
• Enable at least two different methods in case you lose access to one.
• Remember: Only one instance of each method can be used (one phone number, one authenticator app, one email address).
• Save your backup codes in a safe place if your authenticator app provides them.
• Keep your device updated to ensure your authenticator app works correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why do I need to set up 2FA?

Two-Factor Authentication protects your account from unauthorized access, especially if your password is ever compromised. Since your property data and guest information are valuable, 2FA adds an essential security layer that makes it nearly impossible for attackers to gain access to your account even if they obtain your password.

I do not see an option to set up 2FA in my account

Two-Factor Authentication is only available if you use a combination of email and password to login. If you are using a login method like Facebook or Google, you are already secure, since those platforms also offer Two-Factor Authentication through their own systems.

What if I lose access to my phone or email?

You can use a backup method or contact Holidu support to recover access. We strongly recommend setting up a secondary verification method to avoid any access issues. If you have both SMS and an Authenticator App enabled, you'll always have an alternative way to log in.

Can I skip setting up 2FA?

Only temporarily. Two-Factor Authentication becomes mandatory once you publish a property on Holidu. All active hosts must have 2FA enabled to maintain account security.

How long does setup take?

Less than a minute in most cases. The fastest method is SMS, which typically takes 30-45 seconds.

Can I use more than one method?

Yes! You can activate multiple methods for backup. For example, you could set up both an Authenticator App and SMS to ensure you always have a way to access your account.

What if I don't receive the code?

For SMS: Check your signal strength and ensure your phone number is correct. For Authenticator app: Verify that your device's time is synced correctly, as codes depend on accurate time. If you still don't receive the code, contact Holidu support for assistance.

Do collaborators need to activate 2FA too?

Yes, if they have access to published properties. Any user with access to your listing's management tools must also set up Two-Factor Authentication for security purposes.

Can I change my 2FA method later?

Yes, you can change or remove methods at any time. Go to Security in your account settings to update your preferences or add additional verification methods.

Which 2FA method is most secure?

The Authenticator App is considered the most secure because it generates codes directly on your device without relying on internet connectivity or telecommunications networks. SMS is convenient but can be vulnerable to interception, while email is a good backup method.

What happens if my device is stolen or lost?

If your device with the Authenticator App is stolen or lost, you can log in using your backup method (SMS or Email) and remove the compromised authenticator from your account. Contact Holidu support immediately if you cannot access any of your 2FA methods.