Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your MyHeritage account. Even if someone discovers your password, they won't be able to log in without a secondary code.
Note: Before starting, it is highly recommended to add your phone number to your MyHeritage profile. This serves as a recovery method if you lose access to your email or authenticator app. You can find instructions here: How Do I Add My Phone Number to My Family Tree Profile?
You only need to set up 2FA once. Whether you set it up on the website or the mobile app, it will protect your account across all platforms. The instructions below are for setting up 2FA from your Desktop.
If you are looking for instructions for your Mobile App (phone or tablet), see this FAQ instead: How do I set up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for my MyHeritage account on my Mobile App?
Click on the arrow left of the relevant section below in order to see the instructions.
Option 1: Setup 2FA via Authenticator App (Recommended)
Option 1: Setup 2FA via Authenticator App (Recommended)
Use an app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator to generate codes on your phone (we recommend Google Authenticator).
Click on the arrow left of the relevant step below in order to see the instructions.
1. Access Settings
1. Access Settings
Log in to MyHeritage, click your name in the top-right corner. A drop-down menu will open. Then select “Account settings”.
2. Enable 2FA
2. Enable 2FA
Scroll to the "Two-Factor Authentication" section and click “Enable Two-Factor Authentication”.
3. Select Method
3. Select Method
Choose Authenticator App from the list of options and click Continue.
Should you not have an Authenticator App installed yet, please install it on your phone first (we recommend Google Authenticator).
4. Connect Your App (2 Options)
4. Connect Your App (2 Options)
QR Code: Open your authenticator app on your phone, click on the colorful plus in the lower right corner. Scan the QR Code on the desktop screen.
Setup Key: Open your authenticator app on your phone, click on the colorful plus and type the 16-digit setup code into your authenticator app where it says either code or key. As a code name we recommend “MyHeritage”. Click “Add” once you have entered all the details (Step instructions below).
Step 1 (for Setup Key)
Step 2 (for Setup Key)
5. Finalize
5. Finalize
Enter the 6-digit code currently showing in your authenticator app into the MyHeritage screen and click Continue.
Option 2: Setup 2FA via Email
Option 2: Setup 2FA via Email
MyHeritage sends a 6-digit code to your registered email address during login.
Click on the arrow left of the relevant step below in order to see the instructions.
1. Access Settings
1. Access Settings
Log in to MyHeritage, click your name in the top-right corner. A drop-down menu will open. Then select “Account settings”.
2. Enable 2FA
2. Enable 2FA
Scroll to the "Two-Factor Authentication" section and click “Enable Two-Factor Authentication”.
3. Select Method
3. Select Method
Choose Email from the list of options and click Continue.
4. Verify
4. Verify
Check your email for a 6-digit code. Enter it into the verification box and click on Continue.
Tips:
Trusted Devices: When you log in with 2FA, you can check "Trust this device" to avoid entering a code on that specific computer for 30 days.
DNA Security: If you have a DNA kit, 2FA is mandatory to protect your sensitive genetic data.
Switching Methods: To switch from Email to App (or vice versa), you must first Disable 2FA in your Account Settings and then re-enable it using the new method.
Related FAQs: