How to Link an Authentication App to Secure Your Account

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Securing your digital assets begins with strengthening your account’s authentication. One of the most effective ways to protect your online financial platform is by linking an authentication app. This guide walks you through the complete process of connecting an authentication app to your account—whether you're using the OKX mobile app or web platform. You can use any trusted authenticator application, such as Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator, to enhance your account security.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) via an authentication app adds a dynamic, time-sensitive verification code to your login process, making unauthorized access significantly more difficult. Once enabled, you’ll be required to enter a 6-digit code generated by your authenticator app every time you log in or perform sensitive actions.

Important Note: You can disable or change your authentication app at any time. However, for security reasons, fund withdrawals and P2P trading will be temporarily disabled for 24 hours after changing or reconfiguring your authentication method. This cooldown period helps protect your assets from potential unauthorized changes.

🔐 How to Link an Authentication App via the Mobile App

Follow these step-by-step instructions to securely link your authentication app using the OKX mobile application.

Step 1: Access Security Settings

Open the OKX app and navigate to the Main Menu. Tap on Profile & Settings, then go to Security. Under the Authentication Methods section, select Authentication App to begin setup.

👉 Secure your account in minutes with simple steps

Step 2: Verify Your Identity

Before proceeding, the system will prompt you to verify your identity by confirming your phone number or email address. This ensures that only the account owner can enable advanced security features.

Step 3: Install an Authentication App (If Not Already Done)

If you don’t already have an authenticator app installed, download one from your device’s app store. Recommended options include:

You’ll need both the OKX app and your chosen authentication app open during setup.

Step 4: Link Your Accounts

In the OKX app, you'll see a setup key or a QR code. To link your accounts:

💡 Tip: Different apps may have slightly different interfaces. Always follow the in-app instructions provided by your authenticator for best results.

Step 5: Confirm Setup Completion

After adding your OKX account to the authentication app, return to the OKX app and tap Continue.

Step 6: Enter Verification Code

Open your authentication app and locate the 6-digit code associated with your OKX account. Enter this code into the OKX app to verify the connection.

Step 7: Finalize Security Setup

Once the code is validated, your authentication app will be successfully linked. From now on, you'll use it for secure logins and transaction confirmations.

Optional: Enhance App Security

For maximum protection, enable additional security features within your authentication app—such as biometric locks (fingerprint or face recognition) and backup options.

🖥️ How to Set Up an Authentication App on the Web Platform

You can also link an authentication app directly through the OKX website. Here's how:

Step 1: Log In and Navigate to Security

Sign in to your OKX account via the web browser. Click on your profile icon in the top-right corner, then select Security from the dropdown menu.

Step 2: Locate Authentication App Settings

In the Security Center, find the option labeled Authentication App and click Set Up.

👉 Start securing your web account now with two-factor authentication

Step 3: Prepare Your Authenticator App

If you haven’t already installed an authenticator app, download one now. Once ready, click Next on the setup page.

Step 4: Scan QR Code or Enter Setup Key

You’ll see a QR code on-screen. Use your authenticator app to scan it. Alternatively, you can manually enter the provided configuration code into your app.

💡 Tip: As interface designs vary across apps, refer to your authenticator’s user guide if you encounter any issues during setup.

Step 5: Confirm Account Addition

After successfully adding your OKX account in the authenticator app, click Next in your browser.

Step 6: Input Verification Code

Open your authentication app and retrieve the current 6-digit verification code. Enter it into the designated field on the OKX website.

Step 7: Complete Setup

Upon successful validation, your authentication app will be linked to your OKX account. You’ll receive a confirmation message indicating that 2FA is now active.

Optional: Enable Extra Protections

Just like on mobile, consider enabling additional safeguards in your authenticator app—such as encrypted backups and device-level locks—to prevent access if your phone is lost or compromised.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use any authentication app with OKX?

Yes, OKX supports all standard TOTP (Time-Based One-Time Password) compatible apps, including Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, Authy, and others.

Q: What happens if I lose my phone with the authentication app?

If you lose access to your authenticator device, you should immediately contact OKX support and use any backup recovery codes you saved during setup. It's highly recommended to store these codes securely offline.

Q: Why can’t I withdraw funds after changing my authenticator?

For security purposes, OKX imposes a 24-hour withdrawal and P2P trading freeze after changing your 2FA method. This prevents malicious actors from quickly draining funds after hijacking an account.

Q: Do I need internet access to use an authentication app?

No. Authentication apps generate codes locally using a cryptographic key and do not require internet or cellular connectivity once set up.

Q: Is two-factor authentication mandatory on OKX?

While not mandatory, enabling 2FA—especially via an authentication app—is strongly recommended to protect against phishing, hacking, and unauthorized access.

Q: Can I switch from SMS verification to an authentication app?

Absolutely. You can replace SMS-based 2FA with an authentication app at any time through the Security settings. The process follows the same steps outlined above.

👉 Get started today and lock down your digital assets with advanced authentication

By following this guide, you’ve taken a crucial step toward safeguarding your financial future. Linking an authentication app is fast, free, and one of the most effective defenses against cyber threats in today’s digital landscape. Whether you’re trading, holding, or transferring assets, always prioritize account security—because peace of mind starts with protection.