While two-factor authentication (2FA) is not completely fool-proof, it is one of the best ways to protect your accounts from hackers. It adds an extra step when logging in, which is a small extra effort for you, but it dramatically boosts your security.
With 2FA, you’ll be asked for a special login code when signing in from a device or browser Facebook doesn’t recognize—even if someone already knows your password.
Here’s how to enable 2FA on Facebook for Android, iOS, and the web.
How to set up 2FA for Facebook on Android
- Open the Facebook app (make sure you’re signed in).
- Tap the menu (three horizontal lines).
- Choose Settings & Privacy > Settings.
- In the Accounts Center tap Password and security.
- Tap Two-factor authentication and select your account your want to protect.
- Re-enter your password. Facebook will send a one-time code to your phone or email to confirm it’s you.
- Pick your preferred security method:
- Authentication app (recommended) – such as Google Authenticator or Authy.
- Text message (SMS) or WhatsApp – codes sent to your phone number.
- Security key – a USB or Bluetooth device.
- Recovery codes – backup codes to use if other methods aren’t available.
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
How to set up 2FA for Facebook on iPhone or iPad
- Open the Facebook app (make sure you’re signed in).
- Tap your profile picture in the bottom right corner.
- Go to Settings & Privacy > Settings.
- Tap on Accounts Center, then Password and security.
- Tap Two-factor authentication and select your account.
- Re-enter your password. Facebook will send a one-time code to your phone or email to confirm your identity.
- Choose your preferred method:
- Authentication app (recommended) – such as Google Authenticator or Authy.
- Text message (SMS) or WhatsApp – codes sent to your phone number.
- Security key – a USB or Bluetooth device.
- Recovery codes – backup codes to use if other methods aren’t available.
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
How to set up 2FA for Facebook on the web
- Go to facebook.com/settings (or from the home screen, click your profile picture and then Settings & privacy).
- Navigate to Password and security.
- Click Two-factor authentication, then select your account.
- Facebook will send a one-time code to your WhatsApp or email to confirm it’s you, and may ask you to re-enter your password.
- Choose your preferred method:
- Authentication app (recommended) – such as Google Authenticator or Authy.
- Text message (SMS) or WhatsApp – codes sent to your phone number.
- Security key – a USB or Bluetooth device.
- Recovery codes – backup codes to use if other methods aren’t available.
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
Why you should enable it today
Even the strongest password can be stolen. With 2FA, attackers would also need access to your additional factor to be able to log in to your account, whether that’s a code on a physical device or a security key. That makes hijacking your account much harder.
We recommend you set up 2FA on all your important accounts, including messaging and social media accounts. It only takes a few minutes, but can save you from hours or even days of stress later. It’s currently the best password advice we have.