A Master Key is an additional password that allows you to:
- Prevent an unwanted password reset, even if your email account is compromised (If enabled, the Master Key is required to reset your Kraken Sign-In Password).
- Bypass Sign-in Two-factor Authentication (2FA) if you lose access to it (for this reason, Sign-in 2FA and Master Key should always be kept separate).
- Turn off the Global Settings Lock (GSL) immediately if enabled on your account.
Note: Don’t confuse the Master Key with Sign-in Two-factor Authentication (2FA).
We recommend setting up a Master Key in combination with other security features.
The methods available are:
- YubiKey device (most secure) A USB device that you insert into your computer which generates a unique passcode every time you touch or tap the device. This unique passcode would be, in this case, your Master Key and it would change with every use.
- Authenticator app (moderately secure) Usually installed on a smartphone and generates a 6-8 digit passcode every 30 seconds. As with a Yubikey, this unique passcode would be your Master Key and would change with each use.
- Static password (least secure; not recommended) To be used if you want your Master Key to be a classic password of your choice. Being a static password that doesn’t change with each use, it’s less secure than the other options and should be long and complex enough not to be guessed.
How do I set up a Master Key?
- Sign into your Kraken account.
- Click on your profile icon in the upper-right corner of the page.
- Click on “Security”.
- Click the “On/Off” dial under “Master Key” and choose the method you want to use.
REMINDER: The Master Key should be kept separate from account sign-in information or any other 2FAs, as storing this information together would create a security threat to your account.
For example, if you use a YubiKey for Sign-In 2FA, then use an authenticator app or a different YubiKey for the Master Key.