How to set up two-factor authentication on your Facebook account
The reality that anyone can access your Instagram and Threads accounts with your Facebook logins can sometimes be scary. Sure,creating a robust passwordkeeps hackers behind bars, but what if they eventually know your password? That’s where setting up Facebook two-factor authentication comes in. Also known as 2FA, it adds an extra layer of security to your account, requiring a verification code from your device each time you make a login attempt. That way, anyone needs access to your phone to log in, even if they know your username and password.
Whether you prefer using a tried-and-true authenticator app, SMS, or hardware security key, here’s how to set up two-factor authentication on your Facebook account from amodest Android phone, iOS device, or a web browser.
How to activate 2FA for Facebook on your phone
Facebook offers two-factor authentication through authentication apps, SMS, and physical security keys. But you’ll likely use the first two in most cases. The platform recommends using an authentication app, which has an edge over SMS and doesn’t require a separate hardware device. Either way, it should take less than a minute to set up.
The process is similar if you prefer SMS or hardware token for your Facebook 2FA method. You only need to follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process. Meanwhile, it’s possible to add either as a backup in case your authenticator app acts up (more on that later). However, hackers or anyone who has access to your phone or can intercept your text messages can hack your Facebook account, and that’s areason to use 2FAfrom an app or hardware token.
How to activate 2FA for Facebook in your browser
If you use Facebook mainly from your computer, activating two-factor authentication is similar.
How to not get locked out of your Facebook account
Setting up 2FA on your Facebook account is paramount to protect it from hackers. However, you could get locked out of your account if your security methods aren’t available. Perhaps afterlosing access to your SIM card, authentication app, or token hardware. Before that happens, ensure you have a backup with these additional security methods.
Save your recovery codes somewhere
Facebook offers five recovery codes if you can’t access your 2FA method. Save them somewhere you can always access.
Add a backup security method
Did you set up 2FA with an authentication app? Add SMS or Security Key as a second method. This gives you options when a security method doesn’t work.
More ways to stay secure
Two-factor authentication is a great way to keep your accounts safe, but it shouldn’t be your only line of defense against hackers. Creating a difficult-to-guess password is helpful, and you don’t have to worry about generating or remembering them if you havea solid password manager.
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