What is a European authenticator app?

A European authenticator app is a two-factor authentication app built or operated by a company based in Europe. Like other authenticator apps, it generates temporary login codes that help protect your accounts. Data stored on servers in the EU is subject to GDPR safeguards, which can provide stronger privacy rights and stricter limits on data use, though it does not automatically prevent tracking, advertising, or access by non-EU authorities.

Are European authenticator apps more private?

European authenticator apps may offer stronger privacy protections than their American counterparts, particularly when they collect less data, avoid advertising, and provide encrypted or local-only storage. However, an app’s country of origin does not guarantee that it is private or secure. Always research a company, including privacy policy, security features, and data-handling practices, before you commit to using their authenticator app.

Are European authenticator apps as good as Google's or Microsoft's?

Yes, many European authenticator apps provide the same core protection as Google Authenticator and Microsoft Authenticator by generating one-time codes. Some also offer features such as encrypted backups, cross-device syncing, offline storage, open-source code, and easier account exports. Open-source means you can check the code yourself to verify a company's security claims.

European alternatives > Authenticator apps

European authenticator apps

Two-factor authentication has become one of the easiest ways to secure your accounts more effectively: You don't need to be a tech expert to use it, most authentication methods are quick, and dedicated apps are almost always free.

But when you rely on Big Tech authenticator apps like Google's or Microsoft's, you're more likely to remain locked in their ecosystem. Your authentication data may all be controlled by one US-based provider and its policies.

If you're not comfortable placing your trust in US tech giants, find European alternatives that prioritize data minimization, privacy, and user control.

Proton Authenticator

Based: Switzerland

An end-to-end encrypted authenticator app for all your devices

Data protected by end-to-end encryption
Face or fingerprint unlock
Encrypted sync and backup across devices
No account required unless you want cross-device sync
Import 2FA codes from Google Authenticator, LastPass Authenticator, and more
Works on iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, Android, Linux, and Windows
Open source

Get Proton Authenticator

Yubico Authenticator

Based: Sweden

An authenticator app that pairs with a YubiKey to enable hardware-based authentication

Keys are generated and stored on your YubiKey as opposed to your device
Uses open TOTP/HOTP standards
Available on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android
Requires purchasing a YubiKey
No cloud sync required
Works even if your phone is lost or replaced
No network connection required for the YubiKey itself
Open source

Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Protectimus

Based: Ireland

An authenticator app for individuals and businesses

Cloud backup protected by end-to-end encryption
Integration with other apps and systems is available through API, SDKs, and other pre-built components
Adheres to OATH standards for secure OTP generation
Programmable hardware tokens are available
No biometric login available
Not open source

Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

OpenOTP Token

Based: Luxembourg

An authenticator app with phishing protection and text-to-speech OTPs

Data protected by end-to-end encryption
Optional security tools, including location-based authentication and app selection
Biometric login protection for your codes
Supports e-signing via integrations
Primarily for business users
Not open source

Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Aegis Authenticator

Based: Germany

An open-source authenticator app for Android

Local storage with encryption at rest for TOTP and HOTP codes
Import and export tokens from other authenticator apps
Protect codes with biometric unlock
Limited to Android
Open source
No end-to-end encryption

Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Why choose a European authenticator app?

Keep your data out of US jurisdiction

Even if a US company stores your codes outside the US, that doesn't put them out of reach of US authorities. Under laws like the US CLOUD Act and FISA Section 702, American companies can be compelled to hand over user data to US authorities, no matter where it's physically located.

Get access to more flexible security features

Big Tech authenticator apps aren't always the most flexible option. Some European alternatives offer features such as desktop apps, platform-independent backups, open-source code, and greater control over where your authentication data is stored.

Benefit from European privacy expectations

EU-based providers that process personal data are subject to GDPR requirements, including data minimization and protection. GDPR also places conditions on transfers of personal data outside the European Economic Area (EEA).

Invest in Europe's digital future

Authentication is critical digital infrastructure. To build a world that isn't reliant on a small number of US tech platforms, you can choose European alternatives. You'll help build a strong, diverse tech industry that puts privacy and European sovereignty first.

What to look for in a European authenticator app

A European authenticator app can be as private and as advanced as you need it to be. Consider the following questions:

Where are the company's servers located?
Does the app collect analytics, device identifiers, or usage data?
Does the provider sell, share, or use data for advertising or AI training?
Can you use the app without an account?
Are cloud backups and synchronization protected by end-to-end encryption?
Are authentication secrets encrypted locally on your device?
Can you access your codes across different platforms and devices?
Is the app open source so that anyone can inspect its code and check the company's security claims?

Tips for switching to a European authenticator app

Switching authenticator apps is usually straightforward, but a few precautions can help you avoid getting locked out of your accounts:

Check if your old app supports exports

See if your current authenticator lets you export code. Else, you need to turn off two-factor authentication and set it up again on each account individually on the new app.

Save your recovery codes

Store the recovery codes of each service somewhere secure, such as an encrypted password manager, and avoid keeping them only on the same phone as your authenticator.

Test every account individually

Try the new codes and make sure they are accepted, starting with important accounts such as email, password manager, banking services, and cloud storage.

Set up backup or sync immediately

Turn on the new app’s backup or recovery feature once your accounts are moved. This might be encrypted cloud sync, a recovery phrase, or a password-protected export file.

Delete the old app once it all works

After you confirm the new app is working properly, remove the accounts from the old app, delete any temporary transfer files or QR-code screenshots, and then uninstall it.

Turn on protection on the new app

Enable app lock, PIN, or biometric protection on the new authenticator app. Make sure your phone has a strong screen lock and auto-installs security updates.

Not European, but still not Big Tech authenticator apps

If you're looking for a new authenticator app outside of Europe, there are still better options than Big Tech's offerings. Some authenticator apps operating in the US are worth considering, but be aware that your data will be subject to US jurisdiction if you use them.

Ente Auth

Based: Delaware, United States

Open-source authenticator with end-to-end encrypted backups

Fully open-source and end-to-end encrypted
Cross-platform support
Protect codes with a PIN or biometric lock
Independent from venture capital and Big Tech funding

Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

2FAS

Based: Nevada, United States

An open-source authenticator app that saves 2FA tokens locally

Data is stored locally with on-device, end-to-end encryption, and optional self-hosting
Open source
No account required to store codes
Security tiers available for your codes

Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

FreeOTP

Based: North Carolina, United States

An easy-to-use and uncluttered authenticator app for Android and iOS

Open source
Supports HOTP and TOTP protocols
Codes are created locally on your device
No biometric unlock available
No cloud sync or backup feature
QR scanning for adding codes quickly

Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Frequently asked questions about European authenticator apps

What is a European authenticator app?: A European authenticator app is a two-factor authentication app built or operated by a company based in Europe. Like other authenticator apps, it generates temporary login codes that help protect your accounts. Data stored on servers in the EU is subject to GDPR safeguards, which can provide stronger privacy rights and stricter limits on data use, though it does not automatically prevent tracking, advertising, or access by non-EU authorities.
Are European authenticator apps more private?: European authenticator apps may offer stronger privacy protections than their American counterparts, particularly when they collect less data, avoid advertising, and provide encrypted or local-only storage. However, an app’s country of origin does not guarantee that it is private or secure. Always research a company, including privacy policy, security features, and data-handling practices, before you commit to using their authenticator app.
Are European authenticator apps as good as Google's or Microsoft's?: Yes, many European authenticator apps provide the same core protection as Google Authenticator and Microsoft Authenticator by generating one-time codes. Some also offer features such as encrypted backups, cross-device syncing, offline storage, open-source code, and easier account exports. Open-source means you can check the code yourself to verify a company's security claims.

Explore more European alternatives

Looking beyond authenticator apps? Find European alternatives across email, browsers, cloud storage, maps and navigation, social media, chats and messaging, and more.

Browse European alternatives