- 93.8LEGITIMACY SCORE
- 95.3SAFETY SCORE
- 4+CONTENT RATING
- FreePRICE
Google Authenticator App Complaints & User Negative Comments 2024
Google Authenticator app received 130 complaints, negative comments and reviews by users. Have you ever had a bad experience using Google Authenticator? Can you share your negative thoughts about google authenticator?
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Google Authenticator for Negative User Reviews
✓ Stopped working after IOS 14.2 updateHopefully there is a fix coming soon?.Version: 3.0.1
✓ DESERVES 0 STARSDo not get this app!! I’m sure there are other apps that can safely store your information. I got my phone smashed and haven’t been able to retrieve anything, I thought everything saved to my iCloud but nothing was backed up. I had the screenshots from this app but due to have my phone smashed, I obviously can’t see them. I was never sent an email (as they should confirming this service) and have 0 trace of what I used to create this account. You’d think it’d work with a google account but no, it’s like I never had it. I’ve been unable to reach my passwords to accounts I’ve had for years and I have read every site possible with no solution. Google has no contact number to reach when you need help and if they do they just send you to the most unhelpful links. It’s a really unpleasant experience I urge you to not get this app..Version: 3.2.0
✓ FeedbackThis product does what it needs too and works well. If you have a large number of entry’s it’s difficult and slow to use. Would like to see the developer introduce folders to better organise the the authentications such has private, work..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Authenticator is messed upYesterday I format my phone and forgot to Un register my Gmail account in Authenticator. Now Authenticator is creating problems and throwing wrong codes even though I backed up all email accounts. Your Authenticator is not accepting codes that I get from recovery which is weird..Version: 4.0.2
✓ Authenticator hellWon’t accept the codes Locked out of my account Thanks Google.Version: 4.0.1
✓ App Deleted ALL My Accounts - STAY AWAYThis app displayed duplicates for all my accounts. Naturally, I deleted all the duplicates. A few days later I was prompted with the “get started” screen, and to my horror ALL of my accounts were deleted(including crypto wallets and other extremely important things). As it turns out, I am not the only one affected. Simply search “Google Authenticator Duplicates iOS 15” online. I am currently locked out of ALOT of money and several productivity accounts at work and might be completely out of luck. I expected much better from Google and this has only hastened my separation from their products and services. This is inexcusable. Typically I am lenient, but when a product exists to secure your online accounts, it shouldn’t effectively lock you out of them. This is outrageous and it blows my mind that QA did not catch this..Version: 3.2.0
✓ Random 2fa delete.I had been using this app for a year now I think. Randomly I updated it and my 2FA accounts were duplicated, so I had to delete the duplicated ones. Today I was doing nothing at all with my phone, didn’t restart it, didn’t delete anything, didn’t update anything (I have auto updates disabled) and suddenly when I get into the app because I had to use it, everything got deleted, as if it was my first time using the app. I changed to Microsoft app now, there is no backup method in Google Authenticator. I also had to delete my Sentri account which had an open application because of this app..Version: 3.2.0
✓ Just AvoidSame as many others have written. Google Authenticator duplicated all of my 2FA entries so I deleted the duplicates, making sure to only delete the duplicates. Then, next time I opened the app, ALL of the entries were gone - not just duplicates, so now I’m locked out of many of my accounts. Thanks Google and thanks for taking no responsibility for the mess you have made. Apple - This app should be removed from the App Store..Version: 3.4.0
✓ The app will randomly delete all your codesAvoid this app as if your life depends on it because one day, your life might depend on it WHEN (not “if”) it deletes your codes randomly..Version: 4.0.1
✓ New Update is just what was neededJust had the new update.. and excellent new feature that now makes this a very good app.. Ability to export codes, allowing you to move from 1 device to another.. really needed. Still need to add the ability to use FaceID to unlock the app, that would make this more secure... plus potential to backup your codes to Google Drive for example.. so you can have a backup of your codes if you lose the device.. but this update was a huge step in the right direction....Version: 3.1.0
✓ After 2 years…After two years using Authenticator I am very disappointed in the lack of communication in the lack of support and basic usage steps. I have lost over 8 accounts, imagine being hassled to set up two factor authentication every time you log in only to lose your accounts if you ever upgrade phones. Not once or anywhere on the app does it say that you will need both phones present to transfer the codes. I run a business through Facebook which generates over 500k in revenue a year. Imagine losing an account with that much value. Luckily I have things in place to keep up advertising. That being said I will be contacting my lawyer and looking into what options are available to me maybe even look into class actions as I see many others are having the same issue.Version: 3.3.0
✓ TimingI got a new phone and app won’t let me sign in , keeps saying to check the clock ..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Duplicates bugThe app itself was okay to use until one time I noticed that it had created duplicate entries. I deleted the duplicates and all seemed well, but checking the app a few days later all of the entries (for which there had been duplicates) had disappeared. The support link in the App Store doesn’t work, so leaving this review in the hope that they read them. In case it’s relevant the version of iOS is 15..Version: 3.2.0
✓ Do not use this app!If you are in a situation where you are forced to use this app, be sure to keep backup codes so that you can access whatever applications you need to access in the event you lose your connection with Google authenticator. Because of a recent Facebook debacle and not knowing that it was necessary to save recovery codes with Google authenticator, I am now unable to access a 10+ year old Facebook account that includes some business connections. Facebook‘s issues are on them however, since I have a long-standing Google account, I don’t understand how I am unable to recover the connection with my Facebook account to allow me to get back in again. Is google authenticator completely unaffiliated with Google? Very disappointing and in 2021, I can’t believe things are this difficult for the average every day user..Version: 3.1.1
✓ It’s ok, watch out if you change your phoneIf you upgrade or change your phone you are starting again with this app, website by website. Complete PITA. The app also opens up without passcode / or fingerprint / Face ID. Poor show Google..Version: 3.4.0
✓ NumbersI don’t get why the old numbers remain. It was on by trial and error that I worked out I had to scroll down to the last number.Version: 4.0.1
✓ Synchronisation fails after transferI have about 15 2FA-secured accounts on Authenticator on my Samsung mobile phone.I want to transfer them to iPad I exported from Samsung phone and imported into iPad (ipadOS 16.2) Authenticator using QR codes. Now the Apple app generates the same codes as the Samsung phone, but only for a fraction of a second, before generating its own completely different codes. Something very wrong..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Don’t recommendDon’t use this app if you happen to have dyslexia worst app ever..Version: 4.0.2
✓ Used to be goodGoogle Authentication used to be my go-to for TOTP authentication. The recent change integrating it with Google Accounts has meant that screen realestate has been eaten up with menu bars; and now it is slower and harder for me to use as the screen fits less accounts and you have to scroll. Google should have created a seperate app for use with Google Accounts. I deeply dislike when App Developers change and application substantially and make it a mandatory upgrade - even with something as simple as the Authenticator. Previously it was a brilliant single feature app. I have move to FreeOTP.Version: 4.0.1
✓ This is utter crap. Locks yourself outI can’t believe I’m having to write a review. I’ve tried time and time again to work with this STUPID 2 way authenticating crap. The codes don’t work and I’ve tried every troubleshooting instructions I’ve found on the internet and yet nothing works. Because I have a new device, I can’t access my old codes. And now I’m locked out of my own accounts and can’t get in. The only way this is going to be fixed is if you throw this entire process into a fire. Or if you’re lucky, MAYBE someone can help you. I JUST want to get into my accounts! Is that too much to ask?!.Version: 3.4.0
✓ Try to get into vote NZThe key doesn’t work so I will have to use something else to get in.Version: 3.0.1
✓ Lost loginsI had absolutely no idea I had to DL codes before switching phones. I have been locked out of work social media accounts which were unretrievable as new google Authenticator codes from my new phone won’t work. 1st world problems but to say it’s annoying and frustrating is an understatement. Still Love google though you guys are incredible just totally wish I’d known about exporting and importing codes.Version: 4.0.2
✓ Need to remove listed authenticationsBloody hell , how difficult would it be to allow complete removal of items authentications.Version: 4.0.2
✓ Stop workingApp stopped working on iOS 14.2.Version: 3.0.1
✓ Don’t ask for a reviewI hate apps continually asking for reviews.Version: 3.4.0
✓ Authenticator ruin livesWhoever had the dumb idea of creating 2fa should really be cancelled.Version: 4.0.2
✓ It Works!There are a few of these Apps that all do the same thing. It’s kinda clunky but for websites that need this 2-factor authentication , it works. A good feature is you can transfer codes to a new device with a QR. A BAD feature is that the codes are sometimes duplicated. If you delete the duplicate, both copies are deleted and you have to rescan the codes again!.Version: 4.0
✓ Useless if you get a new phone or if you lose your phoneIt tells you to store keys but no one really has time for that and you can easily forget where and how you stored the keys in the first place if you lose the device. If you get a new phone every account you use this app to verify will also be locked. This is the worst security app I’ve ever encountered and too complicated. Do not use this if possible..Version: 3.2.0
✓ The app sucks !!!The app does not work for bitbuy authenticator Very dissapointed.Version: 4.0.2
✓ Terrible mfa application. The absolute worst.Use any other MFA app, but this one. It does not save your information. If you change phones or migrate phone platforms, you are completely screwed unless you remove mfa from all your apps before you uninstall the Google Authenticator app. And if you lose your phone, you are just screwed with no recourse. If you use the Microsoft Authenticator, at least it will remember your information while you are on the same phone platform. But Google? Nope. Don’t even bother to ask for help because all you will receive is arrogant script kiddies belittling you for something you didn’t even know you were supposed to do. I’ll be uninstalling many Google apps in the coming month. I can definitely do without you at least Microsoft has support for the products they make. Imagine if GM made you ask other car owners how to use the windshield wipers, or how to change a tire. Google’s arrogance is amazing. I’ll make use of capitalism and find a better mouse trap..Version: 3.2.0
✓ Doesn’t work correctlyI almost got permanently locked out of my discord account because of this app. none of the codes it was giving me were correctly synced to the time so i couldn’t log in on my phone, meaning i had no backup device and if i was logged out on my tablet for some reason i would have no other way of getting in again. the app’s setup is very unclear and the security of it is also very poor, even more so for a google app. i would instead recommend the app authy - it’s a lot easier to use and is much better encrypted..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Deleted all my accountsDo not trust this app with accounts you plan to retain.Version: 4.0.2
✓ Terrible updateWhatever Google did to the Authenticator app when it was upgraded is terrible. It keeps looking for gmail accounts and is hard to navigate or even figure how to use. The old version was so much easier!😡😡.Version: 4.0
✓ Crashes on openSince latest update app just crashes..Version: 3.0.1
✓ Works fine till you upgrade your phoneWorks fine - very basic - until you upgrade your phone. Then you’ve lost all your linked accounts with no way of recovering them, unless you forgot to wipe your old phone. I hear all the IT security professionals saying that’s a great feature. The rest of us have a life and don’t have time for this rubbish..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Wiped all my 2FA codesLike many other reviewers, it finally happened to me: Last week, I opened the Google Auth app to see all my accounts and codes duplicated. I went through and removed the dupes, and everything was fine until today, when I launched the app to find an empty “welcome” screen and no codes. This is the same phone I’ve had for years, the app hadn’t updated in weeks or months… no clue what caused this, and I’ve used this app daily for years… until this happened out of the blue. User beware - if you use this app, make extra sure you save your backup codes and have a backup auth method on all your 2FA accounts. Personally, I’m using this as an opportunity to migrate to another auth app that allows secure backups and no reports of random resets..Version: 3.2.0
✓ UpdateI think this needs an update. I can’t open it on my iPhone anymore (XS max).Version: 3.0.1
✓ Don't lose or break your deviceMy only smartphone just died. I can no longer recover my gmail account that is connected to Google Authenticator because there's no more way to revive my phone to access the app. Unless you have a recovery phone number (and you haven't lost your number yet) or email then you should be able to get back to your account. Microsoft Authenticator is better, I was able to get back my email accounts that I connected to it as it won't ask for authentication once you provide your password..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Unable to login to accountsThis app was fine until I needed to get a new phone. Even after transferring everything from a backup, I can’t login to accounts like FB, IG and messenger. Google also provides zero customer support, making it impossible to recover login codes. Apple have me a contact number to a disconnected phone line. I Would never have downloaded it if I knew this would happen..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Lost all my codes!My phone broke and I found out the hard way this app doesn't let its codes get backed up, so even though I had a full, recent, encrypted backup in iTunes, and all my other apps came back fine, my Authenticator is now empty. I'm locked out of three accounts now :(.Version: 3.0.0
✓ Changed phone all gone0 stars. Just changed my iPhone as other one broken and unusable. The app on my new phone has no record of websites. Asking me to set up as new. I’ve had to request removal of 2 step authentication from all sites which takes days to confirm and I have to upload passport etc etc I can import the old details from my old phone if I go on the app on my old phone and click a few things - my old phone has a smashed screen and is unusable so…...Version: 3.3.0
✓ Phone Change/broken old phoneI changed my phone 4 days ago and was not able to export Authenticator from the old phone because it was the last day for the return. Now i can not export that phone even though i. Cleaned everything. And due to this i cant use my accounts..Version: 3.1.1
✓ Good but notMostly good but could do with some more features. I’ll be moving to a different authenticator app because of no Pin or security features when actually opening the app..Version: 3.3.0
✓ Use Microsoft Authenticator InsteadI wrote this review to give some people some advice. I’m rating this app five stars just so people can see this review, but in reality, this is garbage. I don’t use this app because I actually don’t know how to use it, but I’m starting to think that I probably shouldn’t try to learn it. You see, there are about a million reviews(ok maybe not a million)from people who used this saying they lost access to their accounts, and couldn’t get them back, and judging from how many reviews there are, I don’t think they’re lying. I use Microsoft Authenticator for my accounts which in my opinion is WAY better than this trash. So instead, I recommend you use Microsoft Authenticator, not this one. Please try doing what I recommended, and that’s all..Version: 4.0.2
✓ I wish I could rate this 0After getting a new phone, I can’t switch devices because the 3 dots in the top right simply aren’t there (fully updated iOS & app). For such a large company, it is an incredibly janky app. 0/10 would STRONGLY recommend you NEVER USE this if you ever want to be able to recover your accounts..Version: 3.2.0
✓ Needs the ability to group accountsGreat application, but it’s missing out me simple feature. I’ve got many accounts, both personal and work related. It would be extremely helpful to be able to organize them in subcategories and even another label below those. For example, I’d like to group my accounts on the first level for “work”, “personal”, “family” (because I manage some family members accounts). Then, within each category I’d put “AWS”, “gcloud”, “banking”, etc..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Signed outThe app randomly signed me out after over a year of use and to get back in, I need an old device. I dont have an old device, this is my device.Version: 3.4.0
✓ It’s so secure, I can’t even access my accountMy old phone broke, and it had all my keys on it. I now cannot access many different accounts with 2FA enabled, including finance apps with my money stored there. As Google has no form of customer service, it seems that I am permanently looked out of all of these accounts. Go with a different provider, one that can give you access if the worst happens and you lose al your security access..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Terrible hard to use hard to set up and hard to addTerrible hard to use hard to set up and hard to add.Version: 4.0.1
✓ Latest update wiped all of my codesWell done google - the new Google Authenticator update that now connects to your account has wiped all of my codes upon opening it. Support simply said I need to now contact all 12 of the companies I use it with to regain access to them. Fantastic!.Version: 4.0.1
✓ Lost all my codesI opened the app today and magically all codes are gone and the app is asking me to “Get Started”. Now I need to go through the process of resetting all 2FA protected services. Thanks google..Version: 3.2.0
✓ Use something else!!! (0 stars if I could )I recently upgraded my phone and none of my data transferred nor does this app offer cloud backups,I’ve had to contact support for each of my accounts and have them turn off 2FA for me. The fact that this is a google app and I have to use my Gmail to use this app should mean cloud backups for that account. And yeah I get there’s a transfer but that completely useless because you have to have the previous phone data still in tact to even use, when most people just whip the phone and give it to a family member or sell it online. Look for something else I recommend Authy or Microsoft’s Authenticator..Version: 3.3.0
✓ Automatic resetAfter an update all the codes disappeared and there’s no way to recover even using email..Version: 3.4.0
✓ App locks you out of FacebookThis system has terrible flaws. If you lose, damage or break your phone you can’t access your Facebook account because the 2fa codes are stuck in the old phone. This is a total nightmare for a business to recover their profiles when the authentication app is physically inside Facebook rather than a link to authenticate. I do not recommend this service.Version: 3.4.0
✓ Would give 0 stars if I couldSame as the other reviews, got a new phone because my old one broke. Downloaded authenticator again and have to create a new account with no access to any of the back up codes. Now can’t login to Facebook, discord, banking apps etc. To make it worse Facebook/Discord say the only way to deal with it is to delete my accounts..Version: 3.3.0
✓ Awful and Google does not careI would give this zero stars if I could. I was hit by the bug with this app following the iOS15 upgrade. Lost access to accounts that I am struggling to recover and will be hit financially. Google don’t appear to be acknowledging this issue as I suspect they cannot recover the keys that have been lost. So even though someone from Google will read this review they would never respond to it. They are hoping it blows over. This is a complete failure in the Google QA procedures and as from a support perspective most of us would be understanding, to a degree, if they just admitted their failure and assisted where they can, if at all possible. I’ve lost trust in Google because of this and will reviewing private and business use of Google services and where I need to move to other providers that seem to have more robust QA procedures and actually seem to just care a little bit..Version: 3.2.0
✓ Randomly resets itselfI had come to rely on Google Authenticator for 2FA on multiple accounts. When it is working - absolutely no issues. However when something goes wrong….. One day, for some reason the App just reset itself. - Update to iOS15 didn’t wipe the data. - Restore from iCloud didn’t wipe the data. - Device to device migration didn’t wipe the data. - There has been no Google Authenticator App update prompting any changes - so this too didn’t wipe the data. Yet, when the App was opened the data was gone. Authenticator was set up as new and all its linked keys gone…… If this is the security for your 2FA, it simply can’t be this volatile. This isn’t the first time Authenticator wiped itself mysteriously. I am now considering using the iOS Authenticator introduced in iOS15 as the frustration of losing 2FA security by this App is driving me insane..Version: 3.2.0
✓ You should’ve warned peopleWith this update, it deletes the code and need the user to import it using the back up phase. Without the back up phrase you lose the code! Be warned.Version: 4.0.1
✓ Where can we cancel the paymentsTell me where to cancel this app that I never used.Version: 4.0.2
✓ Can’t log into my accountBeen using the same account tied to the same authenticator and suddenly I can’t log in?.Version: 4.0.1
✓ App won’t work!Had this app for a couple years and all of a sudden it won’t open. Can’t play my game without entering my Authenticator code. Please fix this..Version: 3.1.1
✓ Failed at direct iPhone>iPhone transferHad the app, worked fine and then I got a new iPhone. I did a direct iPhone 6S to iPhone 11 transfer, and while it went perfectly and every other piece of data including two prominent authenticator apps went across; Google did not. Inexcusable incompetence from a global leader of tech..Version: 3.4.0
✓ App won’t openEvery time I try and open the app it crashes!.Version: 3.0.1
✓ Dont updateAfter the update all my codes are gone and I can’t access any of my accounts.Version: 4.0.2
✓ Do NOT use this app - use any other alternativeThe reason I simple: since there is no way to back up your accounts: if the app doesn't start, crashes, or worse, you have NO way to get your accounts back. This is basically what happened to me. First, after upgrading to iOS 15, I noticed that all my accounts got duplicated for no reason. Then, I tried to remove each duplicate, and at some point the app crashed and all my account got erased in the process!!! Thankfully, I had tested - a few months ago - the account transfer feature, to see if I could transfer to my iPad,l. So I had a "backup" of sorts on my iPad and wasn't locked out of my accounts. But if I had not done that, everything would have been lost and I would be locked out of everything!!!.Version: 3.2.0
✓ Zero stars - avoid at all costs1) there is no support 2) it requires you to print out codes and remember where you put them or store as screenshots, about the least secure thing I can think of 3) if you lose those the app becomes a brick 4) if you lose the original device you installed it on, the app becomes a brick Seriously, save yourself heartbreak and never use this. Read the reviews. I can’t get a new passport now because my ID is tied to this stupid app, and there is no way to contact google for help on this, the user is completely abandoned..Version: 3.1.1
✓ Good enough but limitedWhile the app functions correctly for its basic purpose it also lacks certain features that would strongly enhance usability, such as the option to rename and group second factors. Currently the name of any given set of numbers is determined by the app based on the provider and cannot be changed. Equally the ability to group things into subfolders or tag them and sort on the tags would be very helpful..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Just don’tHeed the warnings of the countless other reviews saying how they lost access to their accounts. The same thing happened to me when I upgraded my phone because, unbeknownst to me, the codes that Google authenticator generates are device specific. Thankfully, I only had one account linked to it, but it was one that was sort of important. Unfortunately, after multiple days of trying a plethora of recovery methods, I ultimately ended up having to have that account permanently deleted. Of course if you were aware of all this and you were smart and changed your 2FA setting before switching or upgrading devices, then yes, this app is easy to use, safe, and operates as intended. But save yourself the hassle and use literally any other 2FA method. One of the safest and easiest is your phone number. Also if the account you are using offers backup codes to copy or download when you set up 2FA, I can not stress this enough, SAVE THOSE CODES!!! TLDR: This app operates as intended but if you switch devices you will lose those authentication codes which makes it incredibly unreliable, and you may, like so many others, end up permanently losing access to your account that are linked to it. Please don’t use this app..Version: 3.4.0
✓ ¯\_(ツ)_/¯I installed and tried it and nothing was wrong, I don’t see why everyone hates it so much, it seemed pretty easy to use....Version: 3.1.1
✓ Was working until now…Suddenly this app opens with no information - a completely blank screen with no options. What happened? It used to be great and now it simply doesn’t work..Version: 4.0.1
✓ Codes not working, tried everything, 2 step verification not recommended:/.Version: 1.1.4.755
✓ Lacks FunctionalityThis authentication app will work but lacks functionality when being used as MFA for multiple sources. While some of the issue is with the sources not setting up their QR Codes and/or URLs correctly and either leaving a default name or email address this app also doesn’t have the ability to rename the authentication tokens. This makes it harder to locate the correct for accounts not normally used or when you have both private and corporate accounts for the same source..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Don’t use Google to auth, just don’t.Why anyone would use a Google app for authenticator anymore is a mystery to me. Google doesn’t really maintain or support apps, they just change them and then you often lose things. Why have an app where you have to be worried about being singed into Google all the time? That’s not something many of us want at baseline. I’m addition you have to worry about transferring accounts and worry about if you forget to handle it right when you get a new device. I regret I ever used Google authenticator on a few accounts only to find out I could no longer do auth on those accounts when Google just changed the whole thing. I had to go to a bunch of trouble to finally to get back into my accounts. I’m so glad my cybersecurity friend got me to convert to using 1Password many years ago. I love it and when it comes to authenticator capability it’s so much easier and makes so much more sense. They make it so easy to add authenticator to a sign in process, and saves the one-time password generator right in the entry in your personal vault along with the sign in for that particular account. This backs up to the cloud and goes with you when go to your new device. They maintain and support the app through the years, you can have it in any device or add it to any browser. No more worrying about being logged into Google and losing your ability to get into your accounts when Google changes their authenticator app..Version: 4.0.1
✓ Codes don’t work on Samsung Galaxy S9 EdgeTrying to use this on a new phone - Samsung Galaxy Edge S9. The codes do not work correctly and as such our client can’t login to the cloud based software that uses this MFA - only an issue on this new S9 phone - works fine on anything else. google - when will you resolve this issue please? Can see other having similar issue. Would be great to get this resolved please..Version: 3.0.1
✓ HorribleIts SO bad.Version: 3.3.0
✓ Round aboutDown loaded to new phone and for hours just sent codes with no I’d. On line no info of why ...Version: 3.0.1
✓ Risky Choice for 2FAUsing an authenticator app for 2FA is seen as a top choice for securing access to sensitive accounts over other methods. However, when the app stops loading, and instead crashes on open, you can easily lose access to these accounts if you’re relying on the app for 2FA and you don’t have backup methods configured (or physically accessible to you in the moment). This app is quite terrible in terms of its support and user experience. It did work, at one point, and now it doesn’t which means that I can never rely on it again. I’ve been slowing shifting to the Microsoft Authenticator app which has a superior user experience and feature set, is substantially more reliable, and works. I would not use this app if I were you..Version: 3.1.1
✓ After iOS 15.0.1, accounts duplicated then access was lostAfter updating my iPhone, I opened the app and noticed duplicates. I deleted these and the next time I used the app it had reset (no accounts listed and was guiding me through the set up procedure). This is a horrible oversight. I lost access to work and private accounts and it severely impacted my workflow. It is also incredibly worrying from a security perspective. This experience is making me consider using a new 2FA app as I have to reset everything anyway..Version: 3.2.0
✓ Just trash.Thanks to this trash app, whoever designed it and to whoever “maintains” it, I can’t access my Nintendo account with all my points and rewards. The fact that I have to save the backup codes and Google couldn’t be arsed to sent them to me on an email, means I can’t access my account anymore. Why do I have to save the codes? What if I lose my phone??? Why do I have to save them?? Google really couldn't sent them to me on an email or, god forbid, save them on a cloud?!?!?! The codes the app generates in the fly don’t work. Nintendo keeps telling me they are incorrect..Version: 3.3.0
✓ Very insecureThere should be a way to get codes from all platforms when you install this app to a new phone with the same email I’d but no. I had to restore my iPhone because the new update iOS 14 would not take my passcode and said it’s wrong and I had to reset it. Now I can’t access any of my investment portfolio. What started as a security is the most insecure thing out there..Version: 3.2.0
✓ I Lost EverythingI lost access to my google account I’ve had my entire life after I got a new phone number and had to get a new iCloud account. I didn’t even get a new phone so there’s no “new phone” to get the codes from. In turn I lost access to my google photos account that had over 18,000 photos backed up to it. I lost all of my daughters newborn photos, my wedding photos and countless other memories I will never be able to retrieve. Unless you’re some sort of high level security person you don’t need this app, DO NOT get it. It’s too easy to lose everything. I don’t even remember why I got it because I didn’t need the extra security. I just thought it was a neat feature I guess. Biggest mistake of my life. I’ve also lost access to ALL of my apps and accounts as well. I had to make all new social media accounts and I still can’t get logged back into some apps because I have a new phone number as well. So I’m logged out of my bank app and pharmacy app as well. I’m sick to my stomach. Please just don’t get this app unless you absolutely NEED the extra security. I would give ANYTHING to be able to retrieve the memories and photos I have lost forever..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Giving 1 star for such an ugly new iconNever has an app icon looked so out of place on an iPhone. I’m going to have to hide the app in a folder as it looks like a child’s toy. Disappointed that the new backup feature only saves to a Google account - I don’t have one. Why can’t it back up to iCloud and Dropbox as well, like other apps offer? Other than that the app works very well..Version: 4.0.1
✓ Most Secure but terrible for people new to 2FA.It IS secure. Just make sure to research 2FA extensively before using so that you know what you’re getting into with this app. No doubt this is the most secure 2FA app given that it stores everything locally. The problem is, it doesn’t explain this for people new to 2FA and are used to everything backing up the the cloud. It is going to lead to a lot of people losing valuable data. Google could fix this issue pretty easily by explaining how this app differs from others. I find it strange that they don’t mention this in the set up process. It makes it feel like they don’t want to turn people away even if it means that they wind up losing access to their accounts. Do not use this app unless you have a good understanding of 2FA and how to properly store backup codes in the event that you lose your device or upgrade to a new phone. Without those codes or your phone to migrate, you will lose access to many, if not all, your accounts. I would only use this app for a handful of accounts that I want the highest level of security on and have stored my backup codes safely, non-digitally, in multiple locations..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Good to get the passcode but design not so muchI have many passcodes for work and personally and it would be good if we can group them personally, frequently used or design in a way so it’s easier to access the passcode when there are a lot of them. It’s not always easy to tell as they all follow the same colour theme. Maybe all odd passcodes use 1 colour and even use another..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Absolute jokeYou need this app to log into any of your accounts yet it doesn’t work you think with such an important release the company would have thought to see that it at least works but no they just leave me and countless others locked out of there accounts with no way to rectify.Version: 3.2.0
✓ Don’t use, it doesn’t back up your accounts!If you change phones and don’t follow their transfer procedure, you lose all your sites and they can’t be retrieved. Choose literally any other authenticator, because almost all of the others do back up. Better yet, authentication is now built into iOS’s password management, so use that..Version: 3.4.0
✓ ???Lost all my old codes because of this update, thanks a lot google, great job.Version: 3.1.1
✓ All codes lost 😱After importing my authenticator codes to a new iPhone I’ve erased the old one and started using my new phone actively. Some weeks later I enter the authenticator app and it shows the first app launch screen with the “Get started” button…. I have no words for how this could happen. I’m assuming that maybe after logging in with my google accounts in the other google apps it creates a new keychain since in the authenticator I wasn’t logged in when I did the import from the old device..Version: 3.4.0
✓ UselessWhy have they not updated this app yet!? Absolutely useless now, can’t even open it..Version: 3.0.1
✓ Huge liability!!!When I migrated to a new phone it deleted all of the different accounts, and now my Econ business is not able to sell or advertise on the meta-apps including Facebook or Instagram whatsoever. There is no warning about this issue and therefore it is extremely risky, and likely that a business owner is going to get locked out of numerous accounts. The Facebook problem is gargantuan, and there is absolutely no way to fix it on the Facebook side, I have been talking to their High-levelTeam for three weeks. Huge huge huge problem I can't overstate.Version: 3.4.0
✓ Dont get thisWorse app ever..Version: 3.1.1
✓ EXPLETIVE RubbishAfter navigating the perplex labyrinthine of convoluted steps, it doesn't work and locks you out..Version: 3.0.0
✓ Add a watch appThe Authenticator is great and I can’t fault it really except that I think it would be handy to be able to access it from my Apple Watch. There are often times where I use a computer to log in and I might not have my phone near me and have to get up to get it. If I could access the Authenticator from my Apple Watch it would be more convenient.Version: 3.4.0
✓ I’d Give Zero if I CouldThe app itself works but after getting my phone replaced and restored from an iCloud backup it does not keep the codes. Almost all of my accounts are inaccessible , including my Snapchat with years and years of memories. I don’t ever write reviews but I want to prevent someone else from going through what i did. Do NOT use this app. Use any other form of 2FA; there isn’t even customer service..Version: 3.2.0
✓ No backup ?The fact that this app has no backup key, doesn’t go into any real detail about that fact and has no support if you lose you phone results in a situation where you are more likely to get locked out of your account than to get hacked 9 times out of 10. The MOST counter productive app I’ve ever come across. Do not use..Version: 3.0.1
✓ Instructions are usually wrong.I have had to use Authenticator to gain access within other apps. I had removed it from my iPad, and needed to reinstall it to change a gmail password. It took me an hour and a half to get it set up, and that was only because I HADN’T deleted it from my iPhone. The directions given to export/import accounts, were completely erroneous. There was no “Overflow Button” in the top-right corner of the app, and I only managed to export/import the accounts, by going through every menu I could find. SO FRUSTRATING!!! Now that it’s installed and running, I’m going to leave it alone until I REALLY need it. I dread changing from one email account to another!😱.Version: 4.0.1
✓ How to lose all your accounts 101It’s simple! get 2FA on all your accounts using google authenticator then buy a new phone and make sure your old phone is reset and bam! you lost all your 2FA codes and have been completely locked out of all yours accounts with no way to get in! you think google will help resolve this problem and get your accounts back? think again! they are absolutely useless when it comes to getting your accounts back :).Version: 3.1.1
✓ No supportAs a marketing manager who just lose access to the Facebook account that ran MULTIPLE businesses, and get 0 help from google, and still no solution from Meta or Facebook… PLEASE do not use this app as an authentication. Use Microsoft or literally any other apps, cause all of them can be backed up with your account or clouds. Google is so backward for not even linking your authentication app to your gmail or google drive. Useless..Version: 3.4.0
✓ -.-I hate that you exist. Two step verification is a plague. Soon I will have to do use two-step verification to use a toilet. I hate the fact that I have to have a phone on me 24/7 just to log into something. Why even have passwords I got to remember? If someone steals my phone they have my entire life to steal away. Google auth is the equivalent of writing your passwords on a napkin with labels and usernames and leaving it on a Dennys table. But what’s the solution? Having another Authenticator app on my computer to verify my phones auth app?… it’s just getting ridiculous. Thank you for your time..Version: 3.4.0
✓ The worst Authenticator app ever. Tokens get removed by themselves.You have all heard of complaints that the app does not allow you to migrate your Authenticator tokens over to a new phone or other device. This is unfortunately expected with this app. Use Authy if you need to be able to back up and transfer 2 factor authentication tokens. The real issue came in after the iOS 15 update. The app decided to add duplicate tokens to my Authenticator app. Meaning I had 2 codes for 1 account. Logically as one would I removed one (1) token out of the app and continued with my day. 2 days later the app randomly decided to delete ALL 6 of my tokens. Meaning I had to re set up 2 factor authentication on 6 different websites and services. TL;DR this app is broken. Tokens (2 factor authentication accounts) get removed by themselves magically. The app has not been updated in months and the developers lack the brain cells to update it and fix bugs..Version: 3.2.0
✓ Might as well give away your passwordsStealing my keys and putting them in cloud thanks.Version: 4.0.1
✓ Updating to iOS has removed all my accountsI have permanently lost access to accounts and services that used the Google Authenticator app for 2FA (two factor authentication) after updating to iOS 15. After removing the duplicates that popped up, the latest update for iOS15 has wiped ALL accounts linked to it. These accounts are now lost to me forever. How could Google not test this before releasing it? Truly negligent..Version: 3.3.0
✓ Give the real dealApp literally said just to save backup code in a screenshot nowhere did it say anything about saving it in case something happens to your main device. Lost all my social media’s when I broke my phone and it instantly could no longer turn on. Garbage explanations that lead me to so much trouble. No support. No help centre that actually helps. Google makes too much money to be this awful at customer service.Version: 4.0.1
✓ Went down three weeks agoGoogle needs to fess up when their systems fail: the Authenticator app refused to cooperate with some HR apps, leading to myself and HR manager losing an entire day trying to set my account up. The third party APP had to turn off Authenticator requirements until Google sorted their tech issues… But Google didn’t declare it publically….Version: 4.1.0
✓ Be Careful - Lost EverythingI updated my iPhone and iPad to the newest Apple OS 15 and I was in the process of transferring my accounts from Google Authenticator to Apple Keychain. I noticed that all my accounts in Authenticator were duplicated so all the codes were listed twice. I went into edit mode and removed the duplicate accounts, leaving the originals. When re-entering the app on both devices I saw that this had deleted everything and I was left with no access to my accounts…I’m now in the process of trying to recover everything..Version: 3.2.0
✓ Lost my profileI had it set up with my Etsy account, now I can’t get in to my Etsy because it lost my account and you can’t seem to get it back..Version: 3.4.0
✓ My go to, but a Apple Watch app would be amazingThis is my go to for 2FA, and it just works. However I have it set up on my phone and having it available as an app for Apple Watch would just be a bit of a QoL upgrade..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Locked out of my accountsWoke this morning and tried to log into my discord account. Authenticator appears to have lost my details and I am now locked out of two of my accounts. Unable to find support to help with this. Thank god I only used this awful app on discord. Unfortunately I now have no way to contact friends I talk with only in discord to let them know why I’m not around. Avoid at all cost. Furious!.Version: 3.4.0
✓ I NEED HELPI recently changed phones from a Samsung to an iPhone 15 but cannot remember my password for gmail and Hotmail. Either that or gmail and Hotmail are saying they are wrong. When trying to set up my authentication app it asks to open the google authentication app to authenticate it. HOW CAN I WHEN I CANNOT LOG IN. No one available to help unless you live in USA. This is one of the worst experiences ever. Please can someone help as it’s driving me crazy. Supposed to be enjoyable experience but when you get to the forgotten password. Enter the phone number then it says Authorise or go to authentication app when that’s exactly what I am trying to do. Then it says sorry unsuccessfully you need to log in using your account use your authentication app and use a registered network it’s most unhelpful. I need this app for work too..Version: 4.0.2
✓ Kyle878 saysNot the best authenticator try Microsoft authenticator it is better.Version: 3.0.1
✓ Terrible update lost everythingSince the update (which looked like it would be a good thing) all my codes have disappeared completely. I can’t tell you how much of a pain this is now going to be. I need those codes back. Another classic google product. Stick to being a search engine, you’re good at that… “ironically types into google” how do I get my 2fa codes back.Version: 4.0
✓ Absolute piece of garbage trashcan appUpdated to ios 15, got duplicate entries, deleted the duplicates. ALL my 2FA is gone. Beyond mad this is absolute trash..Version: 3.2.0
✓ GOOGLE AUTHENTICATOR deleted my accounts, after duplicating them.One day like any other I decide to enter my GOOGLE AUTHENTICATOR and all my key (accounts) were repeated, so I decide to delete the copy or repetition of each account, and everything remains as always, or as it should be, I leave google 2FA and when I go back in to my surprise all the accounts I had were deleted, therefore I have lost all my 2FA passwords, since Google AUTHENTICATOR made the Serious mistake of duplicating my accounts, and then deleting them when they were normal, I hope it will Somehow the support can help me, since it was the App itself that eliminated them..Version: 3.3.0
✓ Too difficult to use and not enough easy instructionsI hate it. It assumes I know stuff when I don’t and I can’t get into my realms.Version: 3.4.0
✓ WARNING: does NOT include itself in iOS backupsYou'd think that when you back up your phone before you erase it, that would include all your phone's data, including all your auth codes, right? Well unfortunately not. If you're unlucky enough to damage your phone, or if it's stolen, there is NO WAY to recover your codes, leaving you permanently locked out of all sites which use this app. Authy is apparently the gold standard for authenticator apps - use that instead..Version: 3.1.1
✓ MY CODES ARE GONE!I am grateful for the update, thank you, I am grateful that My backup codes can now be saved on my gmail account. A warning would have been great too given that after the update, my codes which after multiple installations managed to stay put, somehow vanished clean off the app. Some of them I managed to salvage thanks to the text SMS, but some apps are now inaccessible whatsoever. Now, I have to create a new gmail to create a new account and then somehow mimic every bit of data from my old account..Version: 4.0.1
✓ Something’s missingThis app has a major flaw. The app itself doesn’t require a password or biometric scan. It just opens revealing all the codes. So if someone has your phone, the 2 factor authentication is really one factor. Surely Google can fix this..Version: 3.0.1
✓ Needs backup optionThis app would be perfect but I got thinking what would happen if I lost my phone. The app doesn’t backup the enrolled codes..Version: 3.0.1
✓ BackupI lost my login to several sites and still haven’t been able to recover one. This was after I factory restored my phone. What is not emphasized is that it is critical that you save all authenticator backup codes somewhere safe. Without them you may never be able to log into some sites again..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Cannot sign into an existing account…I got a new phone and when I came to use this it asked me to sign in - no problem right? Actually, massive one because to import my old account I need to go use my old device. No option to use recovery codes or to just sign in. It’s absolutely useless to me now and I have lost 2FA access for some accounts..Version: 3.4.0
✓ I also lost everything.Oh wonder my phone had broken and had to go through a whole process of rebuilding not a going to be specific, but all my data was lost, everything was fine since all I had was pictures and nothing important that I couldn’t get back but guess what, my first ever account I had created with all my info and logins which I couldn’t log back into, such a shame really. Tried looking for any chat support or anything, didn’t find any, and for those saying “this is exactly what we want”, no, I’d at least me expecting a better support from you guys by now since you’d know this would be happening. Many other apps have already a support system that could help return your account if something like this ever is to happen but I guess you guys are too good for it huh..Version: 4.0.2
✓ Google authenticationIt sucks I have been trying to log in for DAYS into the running room and it’s not working.Version: 4.0.1
✓ AuthenticationMy phone has been water damaged and therefore I do not have access to the authentication for my new device. What is the best way to get access to things like messenger considering these factors? Thanks.Version: 3.4.0
✓ This app needs an Apple Watch versionOur job requires us to use the Authenticator to log into our company portal. I finally broke down and purchased an Apple Watch with cellular capability so that I could leave my phone in my locker and still be able to make calls and send texts and also have access to apps. Recently I accidentally left my phone at home and it wasn’t until I tried to log in to my workstation that I realized I left my Authenticator at home as well. Why is the app not available for Apple Watch. With the functionality of my Apple Watch Ultra and the fact that the Authenticator only displays digits, this seems like a no brainer. I will obviously continue to use this app but a version in my Ultra would be awesome..Version: 4.0.1
✓ Bad DesignGoogle, just because you’re user base is FORCED to use this product doesn’t mean you should do the bare minimum. Did the developers think we would only need to store 10-20 accounts? One star review until there is a way to organize accounts by folder/category and export more than 10 accounts at a time. Come on! This is basic UI/UX stuff here. When you have a lot of accounts loaded it takes forever to find anything. And why would anyone only want to backup 10 accounts at a time? You should allow backup of All accounts or select accounts..Version: 3.1.1
✓ Mediocre in StressSure the app works fine when everything is going well. But when, say, you’ve broken your phone or you’ve moved between two Authenticator accounts successively, it’s hard/impossible to recover the codes and in some instances, money gets lost forever because of this lack of retrievability feature.Version: 3.4.0
✓ Issue reinstalling AppI have had issues trying to login into an account utilising the Google Authenticator app. I deleted the app from my iPhone and now want to reinstall it. When I search for the app in the apple App Store I can find the application and it allows me to share the app but no icon to download and reinstall. HELP!!!.Version: 3.4.0
✓ Can’t addThere is no way to add different apps to use Authenticator. The user should be given a choice to do it..Version: 3.4.0
✓ Why no warningMy app has auto updated to an entirely different app that has wiped all of my work linked accounts which are not gmail accounts and I can now not login to xero or any of the other sites I have linked for work? Why on earth would there be no heads up of this? I literally cannot work because of this, that’s messed up..Version: 4.0.1
✓ A quick and fast way to lose your keysAvoid this application as there’s no off-device encrypted backups. It’s on you to manually manage every single key manually. An upgraded handset can hard lock you out of anything this application is touching if you assume that app data will transfer across. Have already spent 10’s of hours arguing with support staff on multiple platforms and incurring unforeseen costs recovering accounts. Google’s documentation for the service is sparse and inconsistent; complete fail for what should be the gold standard for an authenticator..Version: 3.1.1
🙂 Google Authenticator Positive Reviews
Google Authenticator works most of the time. If it is not working for you, we recommend you excersise some patience and retry later or contact Google Authenticator.
⛔ Google Authenticator Problems
