Varakoodeista

Varakoodeista is a term originating from Finnish, often translated as "backup codes" or "recovery codes." These are typically a set of unique, one-time use codes provided by online services, particularly those offering two-factor authentication (2FA) or account recovery options. Their primary purpose is to allow users to regain access to their accounts if they lose their primary authentication methods, such as their phone or password.

When setting up 2FA, users are usually prompted to download, print, or securely store a list of these varakoodeista. Each code can generally be used only once to bypass the standard login procedure and prove identity. This is crucial for situations where a user might have their phone stolen, lost, or have its battery die, preventing them from receiving the usual verification code via SMS or an authenticator app.

It is imperative that varakoodeista are stored in a safe and accessible location, separate from the device used for authentication. Common recommendations include saving them in a password manager, a securely encrypted file on a separate device, or a physical printout kept in a secure personal document. Losing both the primary authentication method and the backup codes can lead to permanent loss of account access. Conversely, if these codes fall into the wrong hands, they can be used by unauthorized individuals to gain access to an account, highlighting the importance of their security.