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)

SMS is the fastest and easiest method to get started with 2FA. You'll receive a one-time code via text message each time you log in.

1. Select SMS from the list.

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

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

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

Method 2: Email

Email verification sends a one-time code to your registered email address each time you log in. This method is reliable and doesn't require a mobile phone.

1. Select Email from the list.
2. Confirm the email address associated with your Holidu account.
3. Click Send Email Code to receive a verification code.
4. Check your email inbox for the code and enter it in the verification field.
5. Click Verify to confirm.
6. You'll see a confirmation message once the setup is complete. 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.

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

Enter the 6-digit code generated by the app, give the device a name (e.g., "My mobile phone"), and click Submit.

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

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 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).
• Save your backup codes in a secure location if your authenticator app provides them.
• Keep your registered email address and phone number up to date.
• Test your 2FA setup immediately after configuration to ensure it 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. It's a critical security measure that safeguards your property listings, guest communications, and payment information.

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 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 or contact Holidu support to recover access. We recommend setting up a secondary verification method to avoid any incidents. For example, if you set up SMS, also add an authenticator app as a backup.

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. Simply choose your preferred method and follow the verification steps.

Can I use more than one method?

Yes! You can activate more than one method for backup. This is highly recommended. For instance, you could set up both SMS and an authenticator app to ensure you always have access to your account.

What if I don't receive the code?

For SMS codes, check your signal strength and ensure your phone is receiving text messages. For authenticator apps, verify that your device's time is synchronized correctly. If you still don't receive a code, contact Holidu support for assistance.

Do collaborators need to activate 2FA too?

Yes, if they have access to published properties. Any user with administrative or editing rights to your listings must set up 2FA to maintain account security.

Can I change my 2FA method later?

Yes, go to Settings > Security to update, remove, or add new verification methods at any time.

What happens if I change my phone number or email?

You'll need to update your 2FA settings with your new phone number or email address. Go to Security settings and reconfigure your authentication methods to ensure continuous access to your account.

Is my data safe with 2FA enabled?

Yes, 2FA significantly enhances your account security by requiring a second form of verification. Even if someone obtains your password, they cannot access your account without the second authentication factor.