I use static activation to activate LP with latest version but I don't think you are getting to the option to choose Static or Dynamic activation stage yet.

I guess you have tried removing the 2-step from the GA app, and then re-add using the same PC you are trying to active LP on? Make sure the PC time is the same as phone, and the same time-zone when you add the bar code to GA on the phone.

I've noticed that if the GA phone time/date is different to the PC system time it will generate a Verification failed error. Fails like clockwork, pardon the pun, so you are probably on the right track with the time.

VPN shouldnt be necessary if you are manually setting the system time on each device. Dont use automatic time if you think there is a sync issue. Set it manually on every device before starting the process and make sure the time doesnt change drastically at any point