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
   • 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: 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.

Tips for Success

• We recommend starting with SMS, as it's the fastest and easiest method.
• 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).
• Store backup codes in a safe place if provided during setup.
• Keep your authenticator app updated to ensure it works reliably.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why do I need to set up 2FA?

To protect your account from unauthorized access, especially if your password is ever compromised. 2FA adds an extra layer of security that makes it significantly harder for anyone to gain access to your account without your permission.

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 they also offer Two-Factor Authentication.

What if I lose access to my phone or email?

You can use a backup method or contact Holidu support to recover access. We recommend setting up a secondary verification method to avoid any incidents. If you have registered multiple 2FA methods, you can use an alternative method to regain access to your account.

Can I skip setting up 2FA?

Only temporarily. It becomes mandatory once you publish a property on Holidu.

How long does setup take?

Less than a minute in most cases. Both SMS and Authenticator App methods can be set up quickly.

Can I use more than one method?

Yes! You can activate more than one method for backup. This means if you lose access to one method, you can use another to log in.

What if I don't receive the code?

Check signal strength for SMS delivery, or verify time sync on your device for authenticator apps. If you still don't receive the code, contact Holidu support to get help. They can assist you in recovering access to your account.

Do collaborators need to activate 2FA too?

Yes, if they have access to published properties. All users with administrative or management access to active properties must enable 2FA for security purposes.

Can I change my 2FA method later?

Yes, go to Security in your account settings to update or remove methods at any time. You can switch between SMS and Authenticator App, or add additional backup methods.

What happens if I lose my authenticator app device?

If you have set up a secondary 2FA method like SMS, you can use that to log in. If you only have the authenticator app set up, you'll need to contact Holidu support for account recovery assistance. This is why we recommend having at least two 2FA methods enabled.

Is my data encrypted after setting up 2FA?

2FA adds a layer of authentication security to your account login. Your data is also protected through Holidu's standard encryption and security protocols. 2FA specifically prevents unauthorized access to your account even if someone obtains your password.