Resetting Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) in Arcano
This guide explains how users can reset Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on their Arcano account.
Overview
2FA adds an extra layer of security to your Arcano account by requiring a verification code from an authenticator app in addition to your password.
If you lose access to your authenticator app or device, your recovery options depend on whether you can still log in.
Scenario 1: You Can Still Log In
(You still have access to your authenticator app)
If you can log into your Arcano account and want to reset 2FA (for example, when switching to a new phone):
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Log in to your Arcano account at https://arcano.app
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Click your profile icon in the top-right corner
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Select Settings
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Open the Security tab in the left sidebar
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Locate the 2FA section
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Click Deactivate to turn off 2FA
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Confirm the deactivation
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To re-enable 2FA on a new device, click Activate and follow the setup instructions
Scenario 2: You Are Locked Out
(You lost access to your authenticator and cannot log in)
⚠️ Important
If you are completely locked out of your account and cannot provide a valid 2FA code:
We cannot reset 2FA for locked-out accounts.
This is due to Arcano’s end-to-end encryption architecture:
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Encryption keys are tied directly to your account credentials
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We cannot verify your identity without a valid 2FA code
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All existing data in the account is permanently unrecoverable
What You Need to Do
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Create a new account at
https://arcano.app/register_user -
Use a different email address (or wait for the old account to be deleted)
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Start fresh — previously stored files and data cannot be recovered
Preventing Future Lockouts
To avoid losing access in the future, we strongly recommend:
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Saving your 2FA backup codes when you enable 2FA
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Using a password manager that supports TOTP codes (e.g. 1Password, Bitwarden)
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Exporting your authenticator app’s backup, if supported
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Using an authenticator that syncs across devices
(Google Authenticator now supports cloud backup)