Multi-factor authentication
How it works, and what to do if you're having problems.
Find out how it works, and what to do if you're having trouble.
How it works
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a secure authentication method that requires users to prove their identity by providing two pieces of evidence that they are who they say they are.
MFA is optional and can be set up from My Trade Me. Once set up, when you log into Trade Me you’ll need to enter a code from your chosen authenticator app to proceed. We’ll remember this for the remainder of your Trade Me session – once logged out, you’ll need to complete MFA to log in again.
Enabling multi-factor authentication
- Go to My Trade Me on the desktop site.
- Select
Manage multi-factor authentication under Update my details.
- You’ll be prompted to check your email inbox for a one-time passcode locate and enter the code from the email.
- Select to set up an authenticator app. If you don’t already have one, download one from the recommended list.
- Using your chosen authenticator app, scan the QR code.
- Enter the authentication code shown in your authenticator app, then select Done.
- Save your recovery codes somewhere safe, then select Continue.
- Multi-factor authentication has been set up – select the back arrow to go back to My Trade Me.
Recovery codes
Recovery codes are single-use codes used to recover your account if you’re locked out. Remember to save your recovery codes when you set up MFA in case this happens – we recommend saving these with a password manager.
Troubleshooting
If you’re unable to access your authenticator app when prompted to complete MFA, you can use your saved recovery codes instead.
- On the authentication screen, select Use another authentication method.
- Select Recovery code.
- Enter one of your saved recovery codes and select Continue.
Once logged in, you can remove your previous authenticator app and set up a new authenticator app that you do have access to.
If you’re unable to access your authenticator app and you have lost your recovery codes, get in touch so we can reset your account.
Even if you haven't set up MFA for your account, we will occasionally require additional authentication as part of keeping Trade Me a safe and trusted marketplace. You’ll need to complete the authentication using the code that was sent to your email address to log in.
Disabling multi-factor authentication
If you’ve changed your mind about using MFA, you can remove it from your account.
- Go to My Trade Me on the desktop site.
- Select
- Enter the code from your authenticator app.
- Select Authenticator app, then Remove authenticator app authentication.
- Select Continue to confirm removal.
- Set up a different authenticator app, or select the back arrow to go back to My Trade Me.