How to migrate from Google Authenticator

Ask the Community Authenticator
1

I might be blind, but how do I migrate my data now?

2

Why not go look in the Help Center first (and spoiler: there are instructions for import from Google Authenticator as well)? :wink:

1 Like
3

Thanks. I did check but did not find anything. Strange.

So I basically need 2 phones then?

4

Well, the first thing is: Google Authenticator seems to not allow another kind of export, so that is a restriction from that part.

And then, a workaround I can imagine: make a screenshot of the export-QR-code, transfer this to another device (via a secure channel and/or encrypted), open/view the screenshot there - and then you should be able to scan it with your phone. :thinking:

5

Thanks, Screenshots are not supported by the Google authenticator. Also I’m not too happy sending this around.

I might setup a temporary phone then. Thanks

1 Like
6

I just tested it. It worked on my Android phone.

If you can’t do it, then the second device could be a the camera of a laptop too. (and then, as written before, display the QR code on your laptop and scan it with your phone)

Understandably, but of course I meant via a secure channel and/or encrypted or something like that.

7

Managed to get it done with a 2nd phone.

2 Likes
8

Easy now, apparently:

  1. In Google Authenticator, click the hamburger at top left, then choose “Transfer Accounts”
  2. Click “Export Accounts”
  3. Select accounts to export (Should default to all). Click “Next”
  4. You’ll be shown one or more screenshots (depending on how many codes you have). Take a screenshot of each QR code. In my case I’m on an iPhone, so they are saved to Photos.
  5. Easiest: Open photos on another device
  6. In Bitwarden Authenticator, click “Settings” at bottom right, then “Import”
  7. Click on “Authenticator Export (JSON)” to reveal other options.
  8. From the list, choose “Google Authenticator”, then click “Import Items”
  9. Scan the QR codes until all items imported.
9

@bontano Welcome to the forum!

I moved your post into this thread, as the other thread was about importing into the Bitwarden integrated authenticator – and not into the dedicated Bitwarden authenticator app.