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. 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 (recommended)
   • Authenticator app (e.g., Google Authenticator, Authy)
   • Email (no longer supported for new hosts)

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, one email address, and 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: Holidu Logo > Security
3. Click Configure next to the authentication method(s) you want to activate.

Choose Your 2FA Method

Method 1: SMS (Mobile Phone) — Recommended

SMS is the fastest and easiest method to set up and use for Two-Factor Authentication.

1. Select SMS from the list.

1. Enter the phone number you want to use and click Get SMS Code.

1. Enter the 6-digit code you receive and click Verify.

1. You'll see a confirmation message once the setup is complete. Congratulations, your account and your data are now secured!

Method 2: Email

Email authentication is no longer available for new hosts, but existing hosts can still use this method.

1. Choose Email authentication from the list of methods.

1. The system will send a verification code to your registered Holidu email address.
2. Check your inbox, enter the code, and click Submit code.

1. You'll see a confirmation message once the setup is complete. Congratulations, your account and your data are now secured!

Method 3: Authenticator App

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.

1. Scan the QR code displayed on your screen (or use a manual code if scanning doesn't work).

1. Enter the 6-digit code generated by the app, give the device a name (e.g., "My mobile phone"), and click Submit.
2. You'll see a confirmation message once setup is complete. Congratulations, your account and your data are now secured!
3. 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 app.

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 email, one phone, one authenticator app).
• Save your backup codes in a secure location if your provider offers them.
• Keep your registered phone number and email address up to date.

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 2FA is mandatory for all hosts with published properties, setting it up ensures your account remains secure and compliant with Holidu's security requirements.

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

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 through their own systems.

What if I lose access to my phone or email?

You can use a backup method to log in. We recommend setting up a secondary verification method to avoid incidents. If you lose access to all methods, contact Holidu support to recover access to your account.

Can I skip setting up 2FA?

Only temporarily. Two-Factor Authentication becomes mandatory once you publish a property on Holidu.

How long does setup take?

Most users can complete 2FA setup in less than a minute.

Can I use more than one method?

Yes! You can activate more than one method for backup. This is highly recommended in case you lose access to your primary method.

What if I don't receive the code?

Check the following depending on your method:

• SMS: Check your signal strength and ensure the phone number is correct.
• Email: Check your spam or junk folders.
• Authenticator app: Ensure your device time is synchronized correctly.

If you still don't receive the code, contact Holidu support for assistance.

Do collaborators need to activate 2FA too?

Yes, if collaborators have access to published properties, they must also activate Two-Factor Authentication on their accounts.

Can I change my 2FA method later?

Yes, you can change your 2FA method at any time. Go to Settings > Security to update, add, or remove authentication methods.

Which 2FA method is most secure?

All three methods are secure when properly used. Authenticator apps are considered the most secure because they generate codes locally without relying on network connectivity. However, SMS is recommended for its ease of use and accessibility.

What happens if someone tries to log into my account without the 2FA code?

They cannot access your account. Even with your correct password, login will fail without the valid 6-digit verification code from your chosen 2FA method.