1. What Is Identity Authentication? Which Authenticators Are Supported?
Identity authentication apps generate time-sensitive verification codes similar to SMS-based 2FA. Once bound to your account, these apps produce a new 6-digit code every 30 seconds for secure login, withdrawals, and security setting modifications.
Our platform has upgraded its security protocols to support multiple authenticators, including:
- Google Authenticator
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Authy
- FreeOTP
👉 Need help choosing an authenticator? Compare features here
2. How to Download an Authenticator (Android)
To install an authentication app:
- Navigate to: OKX App → Full Features → Profile → Security Settings → Authentication App
- Tap the "[Google Authenticator]" download link
- Follow your device's installation prompts
3. Why Does Binding a New Authenticator Trigger an Unbind Email?
This security feature automatically deactivates your previous authenticator when you:
- Bind a new device
- Reinstall the authentication app
- Switch to a different authenticator service
The system ensures only one active authenticator exists per account. Proceed normally after receiving this notification.
4. Best Practices for Secure Authenticator Use
To maximize security:
✔ Disable cloud sync features
✔ Use cross-device installation instead of backups
✔ Never share authentication codes via message
✔ Enable biometric locks when available
Critical reminder: Cloud synchronization creates security vulnerabilities for your private keys and passwords.
5. Setting Up Your Authenticator Account Name
When configuring your authenticator:
- Choose any memorable name (e.g., "Work Email" or "OKX Trading")
- Manual entry replaces QR code scanning
- Names can be changed later in app settings
6. Troubleshooting Authentication Issues
Scenario 1: Can't Disable Authentication
Complete the enhanced security verification prompts. This upgrade protects against unauthorized access attempts.
Scenario 2: Forgotten/Lost Authenticator
- Navigate to Security Settings → Authentication App
- Select "Unbind"
- Rebind a new authenticator
👉 Step-by-step guide to authentication recovery
7. Viewing Your Authentication Codes
Bound authenticators display:
- Continuously updating 6-digit codes
- Time remaining until code refresh (usually 30s)
- Account-specific labels for identification
Note: If unable to locate codes, unbind and rebind your authenticator through security settings.
8. Binding a New Authentication App
For binding instructions, refer to our comprehensive security setup guide.
9. Resetting Authentication While Logged In
Account holders can reset authentication via:
- Email verification
- SMS confirmation
- Backup security questions
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use multiple authenticators simultaneously?
A: No, our system only supports one active authenticator per account for security reasons.
Q: What if my authenticator stops generating codes?
A: Check your device's time synchronization settings - incorrect time causes code mismatches.
Q: Are authentication apps safer than SMS verification?
A: Yes, they eliminate SIM-swapping risks and work without cellular service.
Q: How often should I reset my authenticator?
A: Only when changing devices or suspecting unauthorized access - frequent resets decrease security.
Q: Can authentication apps be hacked?
A: While theoretically possible, proper use (offline mode, no backups) makes them extremely secure.
Q: Why doesn't my new authenticator show the same codes?
A: Each binding generates unique cryptographic keys - old codes immediately expire when rebinding.