2FA Troubleshooting - Invalid TOTP Code

🔄 What is a TOTP Code?

• TOTP stands for Time-based One-Time Password.

• It generates a new 6-digit code every 30 seconds based on:

  • A secret key shared during setup.

  • The current timestamp on your device.

🚫 Reasons You Might See “Invalid TOTP Code”

1. Time Desynchronization:

   • The time on your phone (or TOTP-generating device) is not in sync with internet time.

   • Solution: Enable automatic time sync (NTP) in your device settings.

2. Incorrect Code Entry:

   • You mistyped the code or used an expired one.

   • Solution: Try again quickly before the code refreshes.

3. Wrong Account Selected:

   • If your authenticator app has multiple accounts, you may have picked the wrong one.

   • Solution: Double-check the label on the app and use the correct entry.

4. Authenticator App Misconfigured:

   • The shared secret (QR code or manual key) was entered incorrectly when you first set it up.

   • Solution: Remove and re-add the account, if allowed by the service.

5. Clock Drift on Server or Device:

   • Rarely, the authentication server's clock may be off.

   • Solution: Contact support if the issue persists across devices.

🛠️ How to Fix It

• Sync your device clock with internet time.

  • On iOS: Settings > General > Date & Time > Set Automatically

  • On Android: Settings > System > Date & Time > Use network-provided time

• Try a different device if possible to see if it’s device-specific.

• Reinstall or reset the authenticator app (only if you still have recovery options).