this post was submitted on 21 Oct 2024
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Beside it's inefficient to send text data as an image, why does it make a difference?
If the app has offers option to open an image with a QR code, IMHO it is more convenient, to send the image of the QR code (I'd try 'save image as' instead of a screenshot though). When sending text, you and the recipient manually have to copy the information and the recipient also has to paste it into the right field.
Why should anyone take a camera to take a screenshot or click on 'save image'? Additionally, the secret key would be stored as well on the messenger app you are using to share the key among the group members.
Aegis, e.g. can open images containing a QR code and import the key that way. I assume other apps can do the same.
?
Beside that, I agree that its a security issue to have the plain text or QR code stored somwhere else than in the authenticator app itself. Inerently, trying to circumvent the introduced security by the uniqueness of the TOTP authenticator by sharing the key, one way or another, is a security issue by itself. That's why, I've recommended registering multiple independent authenticatior-keys, if possible, one per group member.