How do I protect my account with two-factor authentication?
Two-factor authentication (2FA) provides a second security layer for your account, protecting against unauthorized access by requiring a separate one-time password (OTP) when you log in.
The system generates OTPs that are valid for 30 seconds, making them more secure than traditional passwords.
What is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)?
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security feature that requires two different forms of identification before granting access to your account:
Something you know - Your username and password
Something you have - A unique code from your authentication app
When 2FA is enabled, even if someone obtains your password, they cannot access your account without the second factor - a time-sensitive code that changes every 30 seconds.
How Does It Work?
When you log in to your IG account with 2FA enabled:
You enter your username and password as usual
You're prompted to enter a 6-digit code from your authentication app
This code is valid for only 30 seconds, making it virtually impossible for unauthorized users to access your account
How do I set up 2FA?
Prerequisites: Before you begin, ensure you have the latest version of the IG Trading mobile app and a smartphone capable of running authentication apps.
Step 1: Download an Authentication App
Choose one of these industry-standard authentication apps from your device's app store:
Google Authenticator
Microsoft Authenticator
Authy
Other compatible TOTP (Time-based One-Time Password) apps
Step 2: Access Security Settings
Open the IG Trading app on your mobile device
Log in to your account
Navigate to Account → Security
Find the "Two-Factor Authentication" option
Step 3: Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Toggle on "Two-Factor Authentication"
A unique secret key will be generated for your account
Keep this screen open - you'll need this key for the next step
Step 4: Link Your Authentication App
Open your chosen authentication app
Tap the "+" or "Add Account" button
Select "Manual Entry" or "Enter Key Manually"
Enter the Account Name (IG Trading or any name you prefer) and the Secret Key from the IG app
Save the entry
Step 5: Verify and Activate
Your authentication app will now display a 6-digit code for IG
Enter this code in the IG app to verify the connection
Tap "Confirm" to complete the setup
You'll receive confirmation that 2FA is now active
Note: Clients can only set up the new third-party authenticator app via their Mobile Trading app. However, clients can login to the web platform using the OTP from the third-party authenticator app.
How do I log in with 2FA?
On Desktop/Web Platform:
Visit the IG web trading platform and click "Log in"
Enter your username/email
Enter your password
When prompted, open your authentication app
Enter the current 6-digit code
Complete login
On Mobile App (with biometrics enabled):
Use Face ID/Touch ID as normal
Enter the 6-digit code when prompted
On Mobile App (without biometrics):
Enter username and password
Enter the 6-digit code when prompted
Which platforms work with 2FA?
Compatible with: IG web trading platform, IG mobile trading apps (iOS and Android), L2 Dealer platform, IG API (with special instructions)
Not compatible with: MetaTrader 4 (MT4)
How do I use 2FA with special platforms?
For API users with 2FA enabled:
Live API: Append the 6-digit code to your password (e.g., if your password is "MyPassword" and the code is "123456", enter "MyPassword123456")
Demo API: Uses separate credentials - no 2FA code needed
TradingView Integration:
Enter your username
In the password field, enter your password followed immediately by the 6-digit code (e.g., "YourPassword123456")
What if I get a new phone?
If you still have your old phone (before switching phones):
Disable 2FA in the IG app
Set it up again on your new device
If you've already lost access to your old phone:
Contact IG support via WhatsApp. Please have the following details ready:
Your full name and date of birth
Trading account login or account ID
Registered postal address
Registered contact number
Account balance
Last market you traded
Last four digits of your registered card(s)
How do I turn off 2FA?
Open the IG mobile app
Go to Account → Security
Toggle off "Two-Factor Authentication"
Enter your current authentication code to confirm
2FA will be disabled immediately
Why isn't my 2FA code working?
"Invalid Code" Error:
Check the time: Codes expire every 30 seconds
Verify device time: Ensure your phone's time is set to automatic
Wait for new code: Try the next code that appears
Can't Access Authentication App:
Lost phone: Contact IG support immediately
App deleted: Reinstall and you'll need to set up 2FA again
Phone broken: Use backup codes if available, or contact support
Login Issues After Password Reset:
Remember to add the 6-digit code after your new password (format: NewPassword123456)
Lost Access? Here's What to Do
If you cannot access your authentication app, contact IG support immediately via WhatsApp. Please have the following details ready:
Your full name and date of birth
Trading account login or account ID
Registered postal address
Registered contact number
Current account balance (approximate is fine)
Last market you traded
Last four digits of your registered card(s)
Our security team will verify your identity and help you regain access to your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 2FA on multiple devices?
No, 2FA can only be active on one device at a time for security reasons.
What if I travel to a different time zone?
Authentication apps work globally. Just ensure your phone's time is set to automatic.
Is 2FA mandatory?
No, but we strongly recommend it for all accounts to ensure maximum security.
Can I use SMS for 2FA instead of an app?
Currently, IG only supports app-based authentication for maximum security.
Will 2FA slow down my trading?
No, once logged in, you can trade normally without additional authentication.
Best Practices for Maximum Security
Keep your authentication app updated
Never share your authentication codes with anyone – IG staff will never ask for them
Use a strong, unique password in combination with 2FA
Enable screen lock on your phone
Consider using an authentication app with backup features