Google Authenticator For Crypto Wallet 2FA: Time-Based or Counter-Based?

Posted by Cwallet Mar 05, 2024 Cwallet Two-factor Authentication

Cryptocurrencies are highly valuable and prone to theft, and the importance of security cannot be overstated. Crypto wallets, which store private keys necessary for accessing and managing funds, are prime targets for hackers. Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security process that requires users to provide two different authentication factors to verify their identity. 2FA enhances security by adding an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

Implementing 2FA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access and helps safeguard users' digital assets from theft or unauthorized transactions. With the rise of cyber threats targeting cryptocurrency users, 2FA has become a fundamental security measure for anyone involved in the crypto space.

Google Authenticator is a popular two-factor authentication app developed by Google. It generates one-time passwords (OTPs) that users can use as the second factor when logging into various online accounts, including cryptocurrency wallets. Google Authenticator is widely trusted for its reliability and security features, making it a preferred choice for many crypto enthusiasts and investors seeking to secure their digital assets. Google Authenticator implements multi-factor authentication services using the time-based one-time password (TOTP) and the HMAC-based one-time password (HOTP), also known as the counter-based one-time password.

What is the difference between these two types of one-time password and which should you use for your crypto wallet 2FA?

What is TOTP and How Does It Work?

Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) is a type of two-factor authentication that generates temporary passcodes based on the current time. Google Authenticator uses the TOTP algorithm that combines this secret key with the current time to generate a unique, time-limited passcode that the user enters along with their password when logging in.

TOTP passcodes are time-limited, typically lasting for 30 seconds, which reduces the window of opportunity for attackers to intercept and reuse them. TOTP passcodes can be generated offline on the user's device, eliminating the need for a constant internet connection during the authentication process.

However, TOTP passcodes are time-sensitive, requiring both the server and the user's device to be synchronized closely. Any deviation in time could result in failed authentication. Additionally, TOTP passcodes are heavily dependent on the user's device, meaning that you would not be able to access your crypto wallet without your device being close to you.

What is HOTP and How Does It Work?

Counter-Based One-Time Password is another name for the HMAC-based One-Time Password algorithm (HOTP). It is an alternative method to Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) for generating authentication codes in the 2FA process. Unlike TOTP, which relies on synchronized clocks between Google Authenticator and the server, HOTP does not require time synchronization. HOTP tokens are generated based on a counter value and a secret key, making them resistant to certain types of attacks, such as replay attacks. Each authentication attempt increases the counter, ensuring that each token can only be used once and cannot be reused in subsequent login attempts.

However, compared to TOTP, which generates tokens based on the current time, HOTP tokens are generated sequentially based on the counter value. This sequential nature may be perceived as less intuitive by users, as they may need to keep track of the current counter value and ensure it remains synchronized with the server.

Despite these limitations, HOTP remains a viable option for 2FA in situations where offline capabilities and increased resilience are prioritized over time-based synchronization. Its simplicity and robustness make it a valuable alternative to TOTP in certain use cases, including securing cryptocurrency wallets where internet connectivity may be unpredictable or compromised.

How Can You Use Google Authenticator to Utilize TOTP?

Google Authenticator uses Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) as the default method for generating authentication codes. Here's how it works:

First, the user needs to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) within their cryptocurrency wallet settings.
The wallet provides a QR code containing a unique secret key. The user scans this QR code using the Google Authenticator app on their smartphone.
Once scanned, Google Authenticator begins generating time-based OTPs based on the secret key and the current time.
During login or transaction verification, the user enters the OTP displayed in the Google Authenticator app as the second factor of authentication.
The wallet verifies the entered OTP against the one generated by Google Authenticator using the shared secret key. If they match, access is granted.

Implementing Google Authenticator For Your Crypto Wallet

Here’s a guide on how you can use Google Authenticator for your crypto wallet on Cwallet. Cwallet provides wallet services for every crypto investor out there. Cwallet is secure and safe. Here’s what to do;

Visit the Cwallet website. Sign up or log in or you could also download the app on the go.
Download and install Google Authenticator
Navigate to the Profile page and click on Security.
Locate Two-Factor Authentication. You will see a switch button right there. Click to enable it and enter your payment password to access the 2FA setting page.
Scan the QR code on the wallet 2FA page using your authenticator app.
Save the backup codes in a secure location for account recovery purposes.
After doing this, you will be required to input your 2FA code even after inputting your transaction pin for wallet transactions.

End Note

In conclusion, both Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) and Counter-Based One-Time Password (HOTP) offer unique advantages and considerations when used in Google Authenticator for crypto wallet two-factor authentication (2FA).

Ultimately, the choice between TOTP and HOTP in Google Authenticator for crypto wallet 2FA depends on individual user preferences and security requirements. We encourage you to carefully evaluate the advantages and limitations of each method and choose the one that best aligns with your needs and risk tolerance.

Regardless of whether you opt for TOTP or HOTP, the importance of implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) cannot be overstated in safeguarding cryptocurrency assets against unauthorized access and theft. In addition to using Google Authenticator for generating one-time passwords, complement your security measures by using reputable crypto wallets such as Cwallet. With Cwallet, you can significantly enhance the resilience of your crypto holdings against cyber threats and unauthorized access attempts. Get started now!