Securing Your ClerkIQ Account with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

At ClerkIQ, the security of your accounting data is our top priority. Adding Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to your account provides a critical extra layer of security to protect sensitive financial information from unauthorized access.

What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), sometimes called Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), adds a step to your login process to verify your identity. Instead of just entering a password (something you know), MFA requires you to provide an additional piece of evidence (something you have), typically a time-sensitive code generated by an authenticator app on your smartphone.

Why Enable MFA?

• Enhanced Security: Significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized account access, even if your password is compromised.
• Data Protection: Protects sensitive client and firm financial data stored within ClerkIQ.
• Compliance: Helps meet security best practices and potential compliance requirements within the accounting industry.

Setting Up MFA in ClerkIQ

Before you begin: Ensure you have an authenticator app installed on your smartphone (e.g., Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, Authy).

Follow these steps to enable MFA for your ClerkIQ account:

1. Log in to your ClerkIQ account.
2. Navigate to your Account Settings. This is usually accessible from your user profile menu in the top-right corner.
3. Find the Security section within your settings.
4. Locate the Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) area and click the "Set up MFA" button. A dialog box will appear.
5. Name Your Factor: In the dialog, enter a descriptive name for your authenticator device (e.g., "My Work Phone", "Personal Authenticator"). This helps you identify it later if you add multiple factors. Click "Continue".
6. Scan the QR Code: The application will now display a QR code. Open your authenticator app on your smartphone and use it to scan the QR code. Your app should automatically add your ClerkIQ account.
7. Enter Verification Code: Your authenticator app will display a 6-digit time-sensitive code. Enter this code into the input field provided in the ClerkIQ dialog.
8. Enable MFA: Click the "Enable MFA" button. If the code is correct, the MFA factor will be successfully added and verified for your account.

Using MFA

After setting up MFA, your login process will slightly change:

1. Enter your email and password as usual.
2. You will be prompted to enter the current 6-digit code from your authenticator app.
3. Enter the code to complete the login.

Managing Recovery Codes

Recovery codes are essential backups.

• Store Safely: Keep them separate from your primary device and password manager if possible (e.g., a secure physical location).
• Use Once: Each code can typically only be used once.
• Regenerate if Needed: If you lose your codes or suspect they are compromised, check your Security settings for an option to generate a new set (this usually requires disabling and re-enabling MFA). Ensure you save the new codes securely.

Need Help?

If you encounter any issues setting up or using MFA, please contact our support team at https://clerkiq.co.za/contact.