The process of moving a software-based authentication application from one mobile device to another is a common requirement for users upgrading hardware or replacing a lost or damaged phone. This involves migrating the stored credentials, such as keys or tokens, that the application uses to generate time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) or push notifications for two-factor authentication (2FA). An example of this would be a user switching from an older iPhone to a newer model and needing to continue using Google Authenticator without losing access to their accounts secured with 2FA.
The significance of this action lies in maintaining uninterrupted access to online accounts protected by enhanced security measures. Proper execution prevents account lockout and avoids the often complex and time-consuming account recovery procedures. Historically, the relative difficulty of this process has been a source of frustration for many users. Modern applications are increasingly incorporating methods to simplify and streamline the migration of authentication data, recognizing the growing reliance on 2FA for online security.