How do six-digit authenticator codes work?

Oct 22, 2026 · Explainer · Security & privacy

Your phone and the website save the same secret key when you scan the set-up QR code. Both count time in 30-second blocks and mix the key with the current block number using a one-way scramble, then keep six digits, so both get the same code. Source: IETF RFC 6238 (TOTP) and RFC 4226 (HOTP).

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