How to Set Up Two-Step Verification to Protect Your Accounts

Two-step verification adds a second lock to your accounts so scammers can't get in even if they have your password.

In this guide (4 steps):

1.Understand how it works
2.Turn on two-step verification for Gmail
3.Turn on two-step verification for Facebook
4.What to do if you don't get the verification code

Understand how it works

~31s

When two-step verification is on, logging in to your account takes two steps instead of one. Step one: you enter your password as usual. Step two: a text message with a short code (like 847291) is sent to your phone. You type that code in, and only then are you let in. Since a scammer doesn't have your phone, they're locked out even if they know your password.

Quick Tip

The code sent to your phone is different every time and expires in a few minutes. Even if a scammer somehow sees a code, they can't reuse it.

Turn on two-step verification for Gmail

~31s

Go to myaccount.google.com on a computer or phone browser. Click "Security" in the left column. Scroll down to "How you sign in to Google" and click "2-Step Verification." Click "Get Started." Google will ask you to enter your password again to confirm it's you. Then follow the steps — you'll enter your phone number and Google will send you a test code to make sure it works.

Quick Tip

Gmail accounts with two-step verification turned on are dramatically less likely to be hacked. Google's own data shows accounts with 2FA block nearly all automated account break-in attempts.

Turn on two-step verification for Facebook

~18s

On Facebook, tap the three horizontal lines (menu icon) → Settings & PrivacySettingsSecurity and Login → scroll down to "Two-Factor Authentication" → tap "Use two-factor authentication." Choose "Text message (SMS)" as the method and enter your phone number. Facebook will send a test code to confirm it works.

What to do if you don't get the verification code

~27s

If you turn on two-step verification and later don't receive the text code, check that your phone has cell service and is not in airplane mode. Some codes can take up to 2-3 minutes to arrive. Most services also offer a backup option — you can request the code be sent to a different phone number or email address, or use a backup code. Save your backup codes when you set up 2FA and keep them somewhere safe.

You Did It!

You've completed: How to Set Up Two-Step Verification to Protect Your Accounts

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Two-step verification (also called two-factor authentication or 2FA) is like having both a deadbolt and a regular lock on your front door. Even if a scammer knows your password, they can't get into your account without also having access to your phone. Security experts say it's the single most effective thing you can do to protect your online accounts.

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