TOTP stands for Time-based One-Time Password. It's a method of two-factor authentication (2FA) that generates a temporary, unique code every 30-60 seconds on a mobile authenticator app. Unlike SMS-based codes, TOTP codes are generated on your device and don't rely on a phone network. This code, combined with your password, provides a much stronger layer of security for your account.
Using Sinch ID with a mobile app authenticator
Before you begin:
You must have access to your Sinch ID account.
You must have a smartphone or tablet.
Make sure your device's clock is synchronized with the internet.
Step 1: Download the Authenticator App
If you don't already have one, download a TOTP-compatible authenticator app from your device's app store.
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Google Authenticator:
Android: Google Play Store
iOS: Apple App Store
Other popular options include Microsoft Authenticator and Authy.
Step 2: Access Your Sinch ID Security Settings
Log in to Sinch ID
In the top-left corner, click on your My profile nav bar.
Select Sign in& Security from the dropdown menu.
On the sign -in & security page, look for manage your security preference, set up 2FA, change password instruction.
Step 3: Configure 2FA with an Authenticator App
On the Sinch ID security page, you will likely see your current 2FA method (e.g., SMS authentication). You need to disable the existing method first.
Follow the on-screen prompts to "set up 2FA" with an authenticator app.
The Sinch ID platform will then display a unique QR code.
Step 4: Link Your Sinch ID to the App
Open the Google Authenticator app on your phone.
Tap the "+" button to add a new account.
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You will be given two options:
Scan a QR code (Recommended): Use your phone's camera to scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen. This is the easiest and most common method.
Enter a setup key: If you cannot scan the QR code, select this option. Enter a name for the account (e.g., "Sinch ID") and then manually type in the secret key provided on the Sinch ID page.
Step 5: Verify and Finalize
Once the account is added, the Google Authenticator app will immediately start generating a new 6-digit code every 30 seconds.
On the Sinch ID setup page, a field will appear asking you to enter this code.
Enter the current 6-digit code from your authenticator app into the Sinch ID field and click Continue or Verify.
Upon successful verification, you will be presented with a recovery code. This is extremely important! Copy this code and store it in a safe, secure place. It is your only way to regain access to your account if you lose your phone or the authenticator app.
Using TOTP for Desktop Login
TOTP doesn’t have to be mobile-only—you can choose from browser extensions or desktop applications depending on your preference or company policy.
Note: If your company has strict IT policies, it’s best to check with your IT team on which desktop authenticator app to use. They can recommend an approved option that meets company standards, since not all apps are free or compliant.
Using Authenticator.cc (Chrome Extension)
The steps are mostly the same as the mobile app guide, except for a few differences:
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Step 1: Install instead of download
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Instead of downloading a mobile app, you install the Authenticator.cc Chrome extension from the Chrome Web Store.
Once installed, you’ll see the Authenticator icon next to your browser’s address bar.
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Step 4: Add account through the extension
Instead of opening Google Authenticator on your phone, you click the Authenticator.cc icon in Chrome.
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Choose + Add Account and then either:
Scan QR Code: Highlight the QR code on the Sinch ID setup page using your mouse.
Enter Key Manually: Paste the secret key into the extension and give it a name (e.g., “Sinch ID”).
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Step 5: Verification works the same
The extension will generate a new 6-digit code every 30 seconds.
Copy the code from the extension and paste it into the Sinch ID setup page.
You’ll still receive a Recovery Code—store it securely.
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Later use:
When logging in, just open the extension, copy the current 6-digit code, and paste it into the 2FA field.
In short: everything else (disabling old 2FA, scanning QR, verifying code, saving recovery code) is the same -the only difference is you use the Chrome extension instead of a mobile app.
Using Authenticator.cc (Firefox Extension)
The steps are very similar if you are using Firefox instead of Chrome.
Open Firefox Add-ons and search for an authenticator extension (e.g., Authenticator.cc).
Click Add to Firefox → Add Extension.
Log in to Sinch ID → go to My profile → Sign in & Security → choose Set up 2FA.
When the QR code appears, click the authenticator extension → Add Account → scan QR or paste the secret key, then copy the 6-digit code to verify and save your recovery code securely.
Using Bitwarden as a TOTP Authenticator
1. Requirements
A Bitwarden Premium account (cost: $10 USD per year).
Premium is required to unlock the TOTP authenticator feature.
2. Setup
Upgrade to Premium.
When enabling 2FA on a service (e.g., Google, GitHub), copy the secret key or scan the QR code provided.
In Bitwarden, edit the login item and paste the secret into the Authenticator Key (TOTP) field.
3. Usage
Bitwarden will generate 6-digit codes that refresh every 30 seconds.
Copy the code from the vault entry (browser extension, mobile app, or desktop app) and paste it into the login screen.
Important Tips
Never share your codes with anyone.
Keep your recovery code safe. This is your backup in case you lose your device.
Time Synchronization: If your codes are not working, check that your phone's time is set to sync automatically with the network.