Two-step verification adds an extra layer of security to your account. In addition to your password, you'll need a second form of verification to log in, e.g. code from an app on your phone.

You can turn on two-step verification from your personal profile in Upstock. Click Set up two-step verification and follow the instructions.

There are two parts to set up: your authenticator app and recover codes.

You’ll need an authenticator app to scan the QR code shown during set up. The app will then generate secure, time-based codes for logging in. These apps are free and easy to use. Popular options include:

You’ll also receive a set of recovery codes during setup. These are backup codes you can use if you lose access to your authenticator app (e.g. if you lose your phone). Be sure to keep these codes somewhere safe, such as a password manager.

When you log in, you’ll be asked for your email and password. You’ll then be asked to enter a code from your authenticator app. If you don’t have access to your app, you can use one of your recovery codes instead.

If your Upstock account is connected to Xero, two-step verification will soon be mandatory. This is a security requirement from Xero to help protect your financial data.

Businesses using Upstock also have the option to require all team members to have two-step verification turned on for added security across their organisation.

Yes, there are a few other names for this - two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) are common ones.