Help Guide

Authenticator App Guide

This guide explains how to use an authenticator app for sign-in verification in the LAS Boomers Digital Archive.

Why use an authenticator app?
An authenticator app generates a temporary 6-digit verification code on your phone or tablet. It can be a convenient alternative to text-message verification, especially when traveling or when cellular service is limited.
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What You Need

Before You Begin

  • You must already have an LAS Boomers account.
  • Your account should be approved before normal sign-in use.
  • You need a smartphone or tablet.
  • You need to install an authenticator app on that device.

Recommended Authenticator Apps

Google Authenticator Simple and widely used.
Microsoft Authenticator Also widely used and easy to set up.
Authy Popular with some users and supports multiple devices.
You only need to install one authenticator app.

How Setup Works

Step 1 - Open the MFA setup screen

In the LAS Boomers site, go to the area where you enroll or manage multi-factor authentication.

Step 2 - Choose authenticator app verification

Select the option for authenticator app verification if it is offered.

Step 3 - Scan the QR code

  1. Open your authenticator app on your phone or tablet.
  2. Choose the option to add an account.
  3. Select Scan a QR Code if available.
  4. Use your device camera to scan the QR code shown on the LAS Boomers page.

Step 4 - Enter the 6-digit code

  1. After scanning, the app will begin showing a 6-digit code.
  2. Enter that code into the verification field on the LAS Boomers page.
  3. Submit the code before it changes.
The 6-digit code usually changes about every 30 seconds. This is normal.

Step 5 - Enrollment complete

Once the code is accepted, your authenticator app is linked to your account. Future sign-ins may ask you for a fresh code from that app.

If You Cannot Scan the QR Code

Some authenticator apps allow you to enter a setup key manually instead of scanning a QR code.

  1. Look for an option such as Enter setup key, Manual entry, or Enter code manually.
  2. Type the secret key exactly as shown on the LAS Boomers page.
  3. After the account is added, enter the current 6-digit code from the app into the LAS Boomers page.
Enter letters and numbers exactly as shown. Spaces usually do not matter, but the characters must be correct.

Common Problems and Solutions

The code was not accepted

  • Make sure you entered the current 6-digit code.
  • Wait for a new code and try again.
  • Make sure you are entering the code for the correct account.
  • Check that your phone or tablet time is set automatically.

I do not receive text messages while traveling

  • An authenticator app is often easier for international travel.
  • It does not require a live text message each time.
  • Your device may still need internet during setup, but the generated codes themselves are local to the app.

I changed phones

  • Your authenticator setup may not move automatically to the new device.
  • You may need to re-enroll the authenticator app.
  • If needed, contact the System Administrator for help.

I deleted the app or account entry

  • You may need to set up the authenticator again.
  • If you cannot sign in, contact the System Administrator.

Travel Recommendation

For LAS Boomers users who live outside the USA or who travel internationally, an authenticator app may be more dependable than text-message verification because it does not rely on receiving a text message each time you sign in.

If you expect to travel, setting up an authenticator app in advance is a good idea.

Need Help?

If you have trouble setting up or using an authenticator app, contact the System Administrator.

Message System Administrator
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