Moving your exchange login from SMS codes to an authenticator in Kenya

SMS codes are familiar to almost everyone in Kenya because of mobile money, so many people keep using them as the second factor on exchange accounts too. The weakness is that SMS depends on your SIM, and SIM swap fraud, where someone convinces a provider to move your number to their card, is a known risk. Fake messages asking you to share a code are another. Authenticator apps and passkeys are stronger options offered by many platforms. This guide explains how to switch over on Binance, OKX, Bybit or Bitget in a safe order, so you gain protection without losing access to your account in the process.

Prepare before you switch

Make sure you can log in normally and that your email account is secure, with its own strong password and second factor. Charge your phone and set aside time when you are not in a hurry. Read the official help article for the platform you are updating, because the menu names and steps differ between apps and can change after updates.

Set up the authenticator

Install a reputable authenticator app from the official app store. In the exchange security settings, choose to add an authenticator and scan the code shown. Write down the backup key on paper and store it somewhere safe away from the phone. Enter the code to confirm. If your platform offers passkeys, consider adding one as well, on more than one device if possible.

Remove SMS only after testing

Log out and log back in using the new method to make sure it works. Approve a small action, such as viewing your withdrawal settings, to confirm the codes are accepted. Only after that should you remove SMS as a second factor, if the platform allows it. Keep your phone number on the account up to date, since it may still be used for alerts.

Protect your SIM as well

Even after switching, your number may matter for recovery and notifications. Ask your network provider about setting a SIM PIN and keep your registration details current. Be suspicious of unexpected loss of signal, which can be a sign of a SIM swap. Never read out a code to someone who calls you claiming to be from support or your provider.

Risk boundary: Kenya Crypto Guide

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Scenario checkpoint

• Secure your email account before changing any exchange security settings
• Write the authenticator backup key on paper and store it away from the phone
• Add a passkey on more than one device where the platform supports it
• Log out and back in with the new method before removing SMS codes
• Set a SIM PIN with your provider and never read codes to callers