Two-Factor Authentication | Keep Your Account Data Safe and Secure
Rentec Direct requires all accounts with online payment processing to set-up two-factor authentication to keep your account data and funds secure. If your account does not include payment processing, we highly recommend you still activate two-factor authentication (2FA).
Two-factor authentication provides an additional verification step beyond your username and password, making it nearly impossible to fall victim to phishing attempts and hackers.
There are two primary methods for two-factor authentication: passkeys and text messages. Either one or both options can be selected.
Passkey Two-Factor Authentication
A passkey uses a security key, which is a small device the size of a USB flash drive that will plug into your computer via USB or USB-C*. When you use a security key as your passkey, you will be prompted to press the button on your security key when you access your online account.
Passkeys are the most secure account protection method because you need to physically possess the device in order to access your account. It would be impossible for a hacker to get access to your account unless they stole your security key.
Important Note: For more information on the importance and benefits of passkey security, check out this article Rentec Direct Launches Industry Leading Passkey Security Feature
Text Message Two-Factor Authentication
Text message-based authentication is a widely used two-factor authentication method. This method will send a code via text message to the cell phone number you indicate, that you will enter into the program when prompted as you log into your account.
Passkey vs Text Message - Which Method is Better
Rentec Direct recommends passkey two-factor authentication as the most secure option for keeping your account data and funds secure.
Alternatively, text message based authentication is a great option for people who are not able to set up a passkey for various reasons.
It is helpful to set up both a passkey and text message two-factor authentication and set the passkey option as your primary method.
Suggestions for Purchasing Passkeys
Passkeys can be used for other programs and accounts beyond your Rentec Direct account. Be sure to get the key type that supports your available USB ports (usually USB-A or USB-C). If you're not sure where to purchase a passkey, you may want to check your local office supply store or review the options at the following links:
Important Note: There are multiple types of passkey options, and Rentec Direct supports all of them, like faceID, fingerprints, and passkey apps. A usb style security key is an affordable and convenient option for setting up your passkey for two-factor authentication.
What Will Require Me to Input My Two-Factor Authentication?
If the system does not recognize your computer, it will prompt you for a secondary means of account verification. This way, even if somebody obtained or guessed your password, they would also need to have possession of your security key or mobile phone to log in and access your data.
How to Set Up Passkey as Your Primary Two-Factor Authentication Method
The following directions will walk you through the steps for setting up a USB style security key as your passkey.
In your Rentec Direct account:
- Click on Settings
- Under Account, click on Login & Password
- In the Two-Factor Authentication section, check the box to Enable Two-Factor Authentication
- Click on the star to make using a Passkey the primary Two-Factor Authentication method
- Plug your physical security key into your computer via USB or USB-C
- Click on Add key
- Enter a nickname for your passkey
- Multiple passkeys can be registered, so a nickname is helpful to remember which one to set as the primary option
- Click on Add
- Follow the prompts on your computer to complete the security key set up
- Touch your security key and/or press the security key's button when prompted
- Add your cell phone number under the Text Message section
- Providing a phone number allows you to still access your account if you don't have your security key with you
- Click on Submit
Important Note: If you are using a secure computer, like your personal device or computer, you have the option to select “Don't ask for codes again on this computer”. It is not recommended that you select this option for shared computers or public computers.
System Note: If you previously shared your login and password information with others to access your account, immediately set them up as a subuser. Anyone you were sharing your login information with will not be able to access your account since you will possess the two-factor authentication device or code.
How to Set Up Text Message Two-Factor Authentication
In your Rentec Direct account:
- Click on Settings
- Under Account, click on Login & Password
- In the Two-Factor Authentication section, check the box to Enable Two-Factor Authentication
- Click on the star to make using Text Message the primary Two-Factor Authentication method
- Input your cell phone number
- Click on Submit
System Note: If you previously shared your login and password information with others to access your account, immediately set them up as a subuser. Anyone you were sharing your information with will not be able to access your account since you will possess the two-factor authentication device or code.
Troubleshooting Passkey Registration
Since there are multiple types of passkey options, they might produce different prompts on your computer that are unrelated to Rentec Direct's software. We will assist you to the best of our ability, but in some cases it might be challenging without us being physically present in the room with you. We provide this documentation to support the most common type of security key used for passkey registration. In some cases, using test message based authentication will be the best option for your needs.
Note: Virtual assistants are recommended to consult their IT professional for assistance when registering a passkey.