Securing your Shopify store is essential to safeguarding your business, and one of the best ways to do this is by enabling two-step authentication (2FA) for your staff accounts. Two-step authentication adds an extra layer of security to protect your store from unauthorized access. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to enable 2FA on Shopify staff accounts, ensuring your team and store stays secure.

What is Shopify’s Two-factor Authentication (2FA)?

Shopify’s Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security feature that requires users to verify their identity in two steps when logging in. It provides an added layer of protection beyond just a password, helping to prevent unauthorized access to your store. After entering your password, you need to add a unique code sent to your phone or created by an authenticator app.

Although account owners can’t activate two-step authentication without the staff member’s consent, they still have the authority to deactivate it on a staff member’s account.

How to Enable Two-Step Authentication For A Staff Account: A Step-By-Step Guide

Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Shopify staff account is a simple process that significantly enhances your store’s security. Follow these methods to get started:

Method 1: Using Shopify Admin Dashboard 

Step 1: Log In to Your Shopify Account

Log in to your Shopify admin account using your email and password as the following image. 

Step 2: Go to the ‘Account’ Section

Once logged in, navigate to the Shopify admin dashboard. Click “Settings,” then select “Users and Permissions” under the Account section. Here, you will find all the details related to account security and user permissions.

Step 3: Select the Staff Member

In the Users and Permissions section, you’ll see a list of staff members. Click on the name of the staff member you want to enable two-step authentication.

Step 4: Click ‘Turn on two-step’

Scroll down to the Two-step authentication section, and click the “Turn on two-step” button. This will begin the setup process for 2FA on the selected staff member’s account.

Step 5: Enter the Account Password

Next, you will be prompted to re-enter the password for the account information. After entering the password, click “Confirm.”

Step 6: Choose Your Authentication Method

You will now have five options for receiving your authentication code: Authenticator app, Security key, Built-in authenticator, SMS delivery, Shopify Mobile prompts. Select your preferred method.

Click “Next” after making your selection.

Step 7: Enter the Authentication Code

Depending on your selected method, you will receive a text message with a verification code or generate a code using an authenticator app. Enter the code in the provided field and click Turn on to continue.

Step 8: Review Backup Codes and Click ‘Done’

As a final step, Shopify will provide backup codes. These are essential in case you lose access to your phone or authenticator app. Be sure to store these codes in a secure location, as they’ll allow you to regain access to your account if needed. 

After reviewing the information, click “Done.”

Two-Step Authentication Using SMS Text Messages

• Step 1: Choose “SMS Delivery” as your authentication method.

• Step 2: Enter your country code and phone number, then check the “I am human” box. Click “Send Authentication Code” to receive a verification code via SMS.

• Step 3: Once you receive the code, enter it and click “Turn On” to complete the SMS-based two-step authentication setup.

Two-Step Authentication Using A Security Key

• Step 1: Select “Security Key” as your two-step authentication method.

• Step 2: Insert your security key device into the USB port (or connect via Bluetooth if your device supports it).
• Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to register your security key with Shopify. This may include tapping the key or pressing a button.
• Step 4: Once you complete registration, click “Turn On” to activate two-step authentication with your security key.

Two-Step Authentication Using A Built-in Authenticator

• Step 1: Select “Built-in Authenticator” as your two-step authentication method.

• Step 2: Follow the on-screen prompts to link your Shopify account with the built-in authenticator on your device (usually located in your device’s security settings).
• Step 3: Confirm the setup by responding to a prompt on your device, such as a fingerprint scan, face recognition, or a password entry.
• Step 4: Once authenticated, click “Turn On” to enable two-step authentication using your device’s built-in authenticator.

Two-Step Authentication Using Shopify Mobile Prompts As a Backup Method 

• Step 1: Select “Shopify Mobile Prompts” as your backup two-step authentication method.

• Step 2: Ensure the Shopify Mobile App is installed on your device and you’re logged in to the correct Shopify account. Then, select your device.

• Step 3: Select “Send mobile prompt” to confirm your device.

• Step 4: Once set up, click “Complete” to activate Shopify mobile prompts as a backup for two-step authentication.

How to Disable Two-Factor Authentication For A Staff Account: A Detailed Guide

There might be instances where you need to turn off two-factor authentication (2FA) for a staff account on Shopify, whether due to role changes or simply to reset access. Fortunately, Shopify makes it straightforward to turn off this extra layer of security. You can refer to this article for more information on turning off this feature on Shopify.

Additional Tips and Best Practices For Two-Step Authentication For A Staff Account

While enabling and disabling 2FA is straightforward, consistently applying these security practices will help safeguard your sensitive Shopify store’s data.

• Educate your staff: Explain the importance of 2FA and provide clear instructions on how to enable it. Offer resources or workshops if needed to ensure everyone understands the process and benefits.
• Offer 2FA options: Help staff choose their preferred 2FA method, whether it’s SMS, an authenticator app, or a security key. This flexibility can encourage greater adoption.
• Implement account recovery options: In addition to backup codes, offer alternative recovery methods like a secondary email address or security questions to help staff regain access if they lose their primary authentication method.
• Consider a password manager: Encourage staff to use a reputable password manager to generate and store strong, unique passwords for all their accounts, including their Shopify login.
• Stay informed about Shopify’s security updates: Keep up-to-date with Shopify’s latest security features and best practices. They may introduce new 2FA methods or security enhancements to protect your store.
• Enforce 2FA for sensitive roles: Make 2FA mandatory for staff members with access to critical data or administrative privileges within your Shopify store.

Bottom Line

By following the detailed steps, you can easily enable and manage two-factor authentication for your team, limiting unauthorized access. Remember that security is a shared responsibility, and it’s essential for all staff members to adopt these practices to protect sensitive data and maintain the integrity of your Shopify e-commerce operations.

FAQs 

How do I give my staff access to Shopify?

To give your staff access to Shopify, log in to your admin account, navigate to the Settings section, select “Users and Permissions,” and click “Add staff account.” Enter their email address and assign appropriate permissions based on their role.

How to turn on two-factor authentication for additional account security?

To turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for your Shopify account, follow the step-by-step guide provided above. Remember, only the staff member can activate their 2FA settings.

How do I add staff to my partner account on Shopify?

To add staff to your partner account on Shopify, log in to your partner dashboard, go to the Users section, and click “Invite staff.” Enter their email and select the permissions they should have.

How to secure an account on Shopify?

To secure your account on Shopify, enable two-factor authentication, use strong and unique passwords, limit staff permissions based on their roles, and regularly monitor account activity.

Related Posts:

• Disable Two-Step Authentication on Shopify
• Enable Two-Step Authentication for SMS Text Messages on Shopify
• Disable Two-Step Authentication for a Staff Account on Shopify
• Set Staff Account Permissions on Shopify