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.

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

1. Select Email from the list.
2. Confirm the email address associated with your Holidu account (you cannot change it during this process).
3. Click Get Email Code.
4. Check your email inbox for a message from Holidu containing a 6-digit code.
5. Enter the 6-digit code in the verification field and click Verify.
6. 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.

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 Account.

Tips for Success

• We recommend starting with SMS or Email, as they are the fastest and easiest methods.
• 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 email address, one authenticator app).
• Store your backup codes in a safe place if provided—these can help you regain access if you lose your primary 2FA method.
• Keep your phone and email information up to date to ensure you can always receive verification codes.

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. It adds an extra security layer that makes it significantly harder for attackers to gain access to your account, even if they obtain your login credentials.

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 log in. If you are using a login method like Facebook or Google, you are already secure, since these services also offer Two-Factor Authentication on their end.

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 backup codes saved, you can use those to regain access.

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?

Less than a minute in most cases, depending on which method you choose.

Can I use more than one method?

Yes! You can activate multiple methods for backup purposes. This ensures you always have an alternative way to verify your identity if one method becomes unavailable.

What if I don't receive the code?

Check signal strength (for SMS), or verify the time sync on your device (for authenticator apps). If you're not receiving email codes, check your spam or junk folder. If problems persist, contact Holidu support for assistance.

Do collaborators need to activate 2FA too?

Yes, if they have access to published properties. All users with administrative or management access to published properties must set up Two-Factor Authentication.

Can I change my 2FA method later?

Yes, you can go to Account Settings > Security at any time to update, add, or remove authentication methods.

What are backup codes and how do I use them?

Backup codes are one-time use codes provided during 2FA setup. Store them in a secure location. If you lose access to your primary 2FA method, you can use a backup code to regain access to your account. Each code can only be used once.

Is my password still important if I use 2FA?

Absolutely. Your password remains your first line of defense. A strong, unique password combined with 2FA provides the best security for your account. Never share your password with anyone, and avoid using easily guessable combinations.