How to add a Google authenticator to the VIP Access mobile app for 2-step verification for Google MFA login

Products

• VIP Service

Issue/Introduction

Google has announced that by the end of 2025, MFA (multi-factor authentication) will be required for all new and existing Google Cloud users who sign in with a password. Users will see notifications and guidance across the Google Cloud Console, Gmail, Firebase Console, gCloud, and other platforms. To continue using these tools, you'll need to enroll in MFA.

A Google authenticator can be securely added to the VIP Access mobile app. This satisfies Google MFA requirements for 2-step verification (2SV) by generating a one-time use security code for accessing your Google account.  

Already using the VIP Access mobile app to login to another application? Follow the steps to add the Google authenticator to the VIP Access app. 

Cause

(source: https://cloud.google.com/blog/products/identity-security/mandatory-mfa-is-coming-to-google-cloud-heres-what-you-need-to-know):

Resolution

Follow these steps to add a Google authenticator to the VIP Access mobile:

1. For consumer Google Accounts and Cloud Identity managed accounts, go to security.google.com. For this initial setup, log in from a device the VIP Access app isn't installed onto. (If you use federated authentication to access Google Cloud, contact your helpdesk to determine if VIP Access can be used as an MFA method.)
2. Under How you sign in to Google, Select 2-Step Verification.
3. Select Turn on 2-Step Verification.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions. When prompted, select the option to add an Authenticator
   
5. Click + Set up authenticator. A QR code will be seen on the screen. You may be prompted to enter your Google password again. 
   
6. Open the VIP Access app on your mobile device. (Or download and install VIP Access from the Google Play or Apple App store.)
7. Click the blue + . If prompted, allow the app to access the camera. The camera will be activated. 
   
8. Scan the Google QR code. A Google authenticator and security code will appear in the VIP Access app.
   
9. On the Google screen, click Next, enter the Google authenticator 6-digit security code, then click Verify. 

 

The Google authenticator in the VIP Access app can now be used for 2-step verification method when logging into your Google account. To access the Google authenticator, open the VIP Access app and swipe left on the screen. Remember that each security code is one-time use only.

Important:  It is recommended to add more than one 2-step Verification option as a backup method if your phone is unavailable. Click here to transfer the VIP Access app to a different mobile device.

Only OTP based authentication is supported in this use-case, no PUSH authentication is supported.