Enable Two-Step Verification
Learn how to configure two-step verification (2FA) to add an extra layer of security to your Trello account and protect against unauthorized access.
This guide explains how to enable two-step verification (also known as two-factor authentication or 2FA) for your Trello account. Two-step verification adds an essential layer of security by requiring both your password and a second form of authentication to access your account.
Why Enable Two-Step Verification
Two-step verification significantly enhances your account security by protecting against:
- Password breaches and credential theft
- Unauthorized access to sensitive project information
- Account takeover attacks that could compromise team collaboration
- Malicious modifications to boards and data
Supported Authentication Methods
Trello supports multiple second-factor authentication methods:
- Authenticator apps (Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, Authy, 1Password, etc.)
- SMS text messages to your mobile phone
Authenticator apps are generally more secure than SMS as they work offline and are less susceptible to SIM swapping attacks.
Prerequisites
- A Trello account with administrative access to your profile settings
- A mobile device with an authenticator app installed, or a phone number for SMS
- Access to your current Trello password
How to Navigate to Two-Step Verification Settings
To access the two-step verification settings, you'll need to navigate through your account profile menu. From any Trello page, click on your profile avatar in the top-right corner, then select Settings to access your account security options.
Configure Two-Step Verification
In the top-right corner of any Trello page, click on your profile avatar (showing your name or initials). This will open a dropdown menu with your account options and workspace navigation.
From the profile dropdown menu, click on Settings. This will take you to your account settings page where you can manage your profile information, security settings, and preferences.
On the settings page, scroll down to find the security section. Look for the Configure two-step verification link. This option is typically located in the account security or privacy section of your settings.
Click on the Configure two-step verification link to begin the setup process. This will redirect you to the two-step verification configuration page where you can choose your preferred authentication method.
You'll now be presented with the two-step verification setup page. Choose your preferred method (authenticator app or SMS), then follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. This typically involves scanning a QR code with your authenticator app or entering your phone number for SMS verification.
Setup Process Details
Authenticator App Setup
- Select the authenticator app option on the setup page
- Open your authenticator app on your mobile device
- Scan the QR code displayed on the Trello page, or manually enter the provided secret key
- Enter the 6-digit verification code generated by your authenticator app
- Save your backup recovery codes in a secure location
SMS Setup
- Select the SMS option on the setup page
- Enter your mobile phone number in the format required
- Click to send a test verification code to your phone
- Enter the received verification code to confirm your phone number
- Save your backup recovery codes in a secure location
Recovery codes are critical for account access if you lose your primary 2FA method. Store them in a password manager or secure physical location, separate from your other credentials.
Security Best Practices
- Store backup recovery codes securely in a password manager or secure physical location
- Use authenticator apps over SMS when possible for enhanced security
- Consider using multiple backup methods if your authenticator app supports it
- Test your 2FA setup by logging out and logging back in
- Regularly review your security settings and update your recovery methods if needed
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Use your backup recovery codes to log in. Each code can only be used once. If you've used all codes, contact Trello support for account recovery assistance.
Ensure your device's time is synchronized correctly. Most authenticator apps rely on accurate time synchronization. Check your device's automatic date and time settings.
If you still have access to your account, go to your two-step verification settings to generate new recovery codes. If you're locked out, you'll need to use the account recovery process through Trello support.
Check that your phone number is entered correctly with the proper country code. Ensure your phone has good signal reception and isn't blocking messages from unknown numbers.
Managing Two-Step Verification
Once enabled, you can return to the same settings page to:
- Generate new backup recovery codes
- Change your authentication method (from SMS to app or vice versa)
- Update your phone number for SMS verification
- Disable two-step verification (not recommended)
Enterprise and Team Considerations
For Trello Enterprise customers, administrators can:
- Require two-step verification for all team members
- Implement SAML 2.0 SSO as an additional authentication layer
- Set up organizational policies for authentication requirements
Teams should establish clear policies around two-step verification usage and provide guidance for account recovery procedures.
Conclusion
Enabling two-step verification is one of the most effective ways to protect your Trello account from unauthorized access. This additional security layer ensures that even if your password is compromised, your account remains secure. Take a few minutes to set up this critical security feature and keep your backup recovery codes in a safe place.
Once configured, you'll have peace of mind knowing your project data and collaboration spaces are protected by enterprise-grade security measures. Remember to test your setup and keep your authentication methods up to date for optimal security.