What is "Authenticator app" two-step verification?

An authenticator app adds a second step to your login. After you log in your usual way, you enter a 6-digit code from an app on your phone. Even if someone learns your password, they can't get into your account without your phone.

How it works

Your authenticator app generates a new 6-digit code every 30 seconds. The codes are created on your phone and don't need a cell signal or internet connection. Our site checks that the code you enter matches the one your app is showing.

The authenticator app doesn't replace your login. It's an extra step after your password, magic link, or Google login.

Which app should I use?

Any standard authenticator app works, including:

Google Authenticator
Microsoft Authenticator
Authy
1Password
Bitwarden

If you already use one for other accounts, you can use the same app here.

Setting it up

Log in to CEUniverse. You'll be offered the chance to set up a passkey or use an authenticator app instead. Choose use an authenticator app.
Open your authenticator app and add a new account by scanning the QR code on your screen. If you can't scan it, your app will have an option to enter a setup key by hand.
Enter the 6-digit code your app shows to confirm it's working.
Save your recovery codes (see below).

If you'd rather do this later, select Not now. You'll be able to set it up any time after you log in.

Your recovery codes

When you finish setup, you'll be given ten single-use recovery codes. Save them before you leave the page. Store them somewhere safe, such as a password manager, or print them and keep them in a safe place.

If you lose your phone or can't get to your app, enter one of these codes instead of the 6-digit code. Each recovery code works only once.

Logging in afterward

Log in the way you normally do. When you're asked for a code, open your authenticator app, find the CEUniverse entry, and type in the current 6-digit code. If the code doesn't work, wait for the next one and try again, since codes expire every 30 seconds.

Changing phones, or turning it off

If you get a new phone, set up your authenticator app again from there before you wipe or trade in the old phone, so you don't get locked out.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to use an authenticator app?

No. It's an optional extra layer of protection. You can log in without it using any of the options in our Login Options article.

What's the difference between an authenticator app and a passkey?

A passkey uses your fingerprint, face, or device PIN. An authenticator app gives you a 6-digit code to type in. Both add strong protection to your account. A passkey is generally quicker, while an authenticator app works on any device, including a shared computer where you can't use a passkey.

Does it cost anything or use my data plan?

No. The apps above are free for this purpose, and codes are generated on your phone without needing a connection.

My code says it's incorrect. What should I do?

First, make sure you're using the entry for CEUniverse and typing the code before it changes. If it still fails, check that your phone's date and time are set to update automatically, since a clock that's off by a minute or more will produce codes our site doesn't accept. If none of that helps, use a recovery code.