How Do I Setup Two Factor Authorization on My Vanguard Account?

Two-factor authentication is a security feature requiring you to use at least one of two possible factors (like your phone number, password, or location) to verify your identity. It helps keep your account secure by requiring you to enter a code sent to your mobile device or email each time you log in. It prevents unauthorized access to your accounts. Once you activate your Vanguard account, Vanguard will protect it.

Vanguard is a provider of mutual funds. It provides you with the most secure online experience. It's now offering two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect your account and personal information.

It means that when you log in to your account from a device, it will ask you for more than just your username and password -- you must also enter a security code from an authenticator app or SMS text message sent by Vanguard.

Here's how to set up two-factor authorization on your Vanguard account.

Locate the Security and Authentication Tile

Navigate to the Vanguard main page.
Click on the Security and Authentication tile.

Click on the Two-Factor Authentication Tile

You need to click the Two-factor authentication tile to set up two-factor authentication. You can find this link on your homepage.

Scroll Down To Activate Two-Factor Authentication

On the next screen, click on the Two-factor authentication tile. You will find a page where you will see different options to set up 2FA, such as SMS or call verification and Google Authenticator.

Select an Authenticator App or SMS Text Message

Choose one of the two options:

Use an authenticator app on your device. If you choose this option, you'll download and install the Google Authenticator app on your device. When prompted, scan the QR code generated by Vanguard that will allow you to begin using the app with your account.

Use SMS text messages for 2FA authorization instead of an authenticator app. If you choose this option, Vanguard will ask you to enter your mobile phone number into the system. You do this before you can continue setting up two-factor authentication for logging into the website or Mobile App.

Click Activate

Click the Activate button to enable two-factor authentication for your Vanguard account, and follow the prompts to enter a security code.

Select an authenticator app or SMS text message as your preferred method of receiving a security code; you can change this setting by logging into Vanguard.

Sign In With Your User ID and Password

You'll need to sign in with your username and password. You should enter the security code from the method you select and click Continue.

Once you've completed all the steps above, you have set up two-factor authentication on your Vanguard account.

Logging In From a New Device

The next time you log in, you will follow the steps to enter your username and password. Once you've done that, you will find a prompt to enter a security code.

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