Proton Launches Cross-Platform Encrypted 2FA App

The privacy-focused company Proton launched a two-factor authentication (2FA) app called Proton Authenticator last Thursday. The open-source app is available for free download and is compatible with Android, iOS, Linux, Mac, and Windows devices.

According to the press release, Proton Authenticator has been designed to protect users from hackers by providing a second layer of security through temporary one-time codes for logging in — similar to how most popular 2FA platforms work — but with greater adaptability than its competitors.

“Today we’re introducing Proton Authenticator, a free 2FA app that gives you more flexibility than other authenticators, along with strong encryption from a trusted team,” states the document. “Proton Authenticator is open source like all our apps, available for every device (including desktop!), and lets you import all your existing 2FA tokens in seconds.”

Proton, known for its popular end-to-end encrypted services such as Proton Mail and Proton VPN, is expanding its product portfolio to include Proton Authenticator, offering customers a new tool that competes with popular 2FA apps, including Google Authenticator, Authy, Duo Mobile, and Microsoft Authenticator.

“While there are many 2FA apps available, the majority are closed source, rely on ads and trackers, and don’t offer end-to-end encrypted 2FA backups, making them a choice filled with compromise for the Proton community,” wrote Proton. “We wanted to offer a no-compromise choice.”

In a comparative table on its website, Proton explained how its new product offers users greater compatibility with different devices and operating systems, as well as the innovative open-source approach, which aligns with the company’s product principles.

Proton’s Head of Account Security, Eamonn Maguire, explained in an interview with TechCrunch that the company’s focus is on empowering people to control their data and protect their privacy.

“We believe strong security should never come at the cost of your convenience or privacy,” said Maguire. “We’re putting users firmly in control not only over their data, but the way they access their online accounts.”

Proton's privacy policies have also been a source of legal conflict. A few weeks ago, the Indian government threatened to block Proton Mail after abusive emails and deepfake content targeting employees in the country were reported.