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Safety & Privacy

Beginner

2 min read 4 stepsApril 19, 2026Verified April 2026

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.

At a Glance

Understand how it works

~27s

With two-step verification on, logging in takes two steps. Step one: you enter your password as usual. Step two: a text with a short code, like 847291, is sent to your phone. You type that code in. Only then are you let in. A scammer does not have your phone. So they are locked out, even if they know your password.

Quick Tip

Each code is different and expires in a few minutes. Even if a scammer somehow sees one, they cannot reuse it.

Turn on two-step verification for Gmail

~26s

Go to myaccount.google.com on a computer or phone browser. Click "Security" in the left column. Scroll to "How you sign in to Google." Click "2-Step Verification." Click "Get Started." Google will ask for your password again, to confirm it is you. Then enter your phone number. Google sends a test code to make sure it works.

Quick Tip

Accounts with two-step verification are far less likely to be hacked. Google's own data shows 2FA blocks nearly all automated break-in attempts.

Turn on two-step verification for Facebook

~16s

On Facebook, tap the three lines (the menu icon). Tap Settings & Privacy, then Settings, then Security and Login. Scroll to "Two-Factor Authentication." Tap "Use two-factor authentication." Choose "Text message (SMS)" and enter your phone number. Facebook sends a test code to confirm it works.

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

~21s

Check that your phone has cell service and is not in airplane mode. A code can take 2-3 minutes to arrive. Most services also offer a backup option. You can ask for the code by a different phone number or email, or use a backup code. Save your backup codes when you set up 2FA. Keep them somewhere safe.

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Two-step verification adds a second lock to your front door. It is also called two-factor authentication, or 2FA. Even if a scammer learns your password, they still cannot get in without your phone too. Security experts call this the single best thing you can do to protect your accounts.

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Official Resources

FTC Consumer Protection CISA — Cybersecurity Tips AARP Fraud Watch Network

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