If you need to receive a login code by SMS to access your Facebook account, there are a few different ways to make this happen. Facebook allows you to enable SMS-based two-factor authentication as an extra layer of security for your account. Here’s what you need to know about getting a Facebook login code through text message.
Why Would I Need a Facebook Login Code by SMS?
The main reasons you may need a Facebook login code sent via SMS include:
- You’ve enabled two-factor authentication on your account – This requires entering a code sent to your phone whenever you log in from a new device.
- You’re trying to log in from a new device or location – Facebook may automatically send a code to confirm it’s really you trying to access the account.
- You’ve been logged out of your account – A login code helps verify your identity and allows you to regain access to your account.
- You’ve forgotten your password – You can have a code sent to your phone to verify your identity and reset your password.
Essentially, Facebook uses SMS login codes as an extra security check whenever something about your login seems unusual or higher risk. Requiring the entry of a code that’s sent to your phone helps confirm that you’re the legitimate account owner trying to gain access.
How to Enable Two-Factor Authentication
If you want to proactively turn on SMS login codes for added security, you can enable two-factor authentication (2FA) in your Facebook settings:
- Log into your Facebook account on a desktop browser.
- Click on the down arrow in the top right and select “Settings”.
- Go to the “Security and Login” settings.
- Select “Use two-factor authentication” and follow the on-screen instructions to set up 2FA.
- Choose text messages (SMS) as your method for receiving the login codes.
Once enabled, you’ll need to enter a code sent to your phone number every time you log into your Facebook account from a new device. This adds an extra layer of security, even if someone knows your password they can’t access your account without also having your phone.
What to Do When Facebook Requests a Login Code
If Facebook automatically sends you an SMS login code without you turning on 2FA, here’s what to do:
- Wait to receive the 6-digit login code on your phone via text message.
- Enter the code on the Facebook page requesting it within the allotted time.
- You should then be able to access your Facebook account successfully.
This process will verify your phone number with whichever device you’re trying to log in from, confirming you’re the legitimate account holder. Facebook will automatically text you a new login code whenever something seems suspicious about a login attempt.
Troubleshooting if You Don’t Get the Code
If you request a Facebook login code but never receive the SMS with the code, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Double check that the phone number listed on your Facebook account is correct and active.
- Verify you have cell service or WiFi connection for receiving texts.
- Open up your text messaging app and make sure the message hasn’t been blocked as spam.
- Ask Facebook to resend a new 6-digit code to your phone number.
- Update your phone number on your Facebook account if needed.
- Log into Facebook from a desktop browser and disable then re-enable 2FA.
If there are no issues receiving regular text messages to your phone, the problem likely lies with how your number is configured on your Facebook account. Updating the number or resetting your 2FA settings can help straighten things out.
Ways to Get Login Code through Other Methods
While SMS text messages are the default way to deliver Facebook’s login codes, you do have other options. If you can’t get SMS codes for some reason, alternative methods include:
- Authentication app – Use a code generating app like Google Authenticator or Authy instead of texts.
- Security key – Use a physical security key like YubiKey to log in.
- Backup email – Get login codes through a backup email address.
- Mobile alerts – Get mobile notifications through the Facebook app.
To change your 2FA delivery method from SMS to one of these options, go back into your Facebook Security settings. Just know that SMS texts are the simplest and most widely-compatible method.
Can I Turn Off SMS Login Codes?
If having to enter SMS login codes is getting inconvenient, you can disable two-factor authentication at any time to stop getting them. Here’s how:
- Go back into the “Security and Login” section of your Facebook Settings.
- Choose “Use two-factor authentication” again.
- Select “Turn off” to disable 2FA.
Once disabled, you’ll no longer have to enter codes sent to your phone when you log into Facebook. However, this does remove an important security layer protecting your account. It’s generally recommended to keep 2FA enabled whenever possible.
In Conclusion
Getting a Facebook login code through SMS is straightforward whenever the site notices suspicious login activity from your account. You can also proactively enable two-factor authentication using text messages for heightened security. If you’re not receiving the SMS codes needed to access your account, updating your phone number and 2FA settings on Facebook should help resolve any issues. While SMS isn’t your only option for 2FA with Facebook, it remains the most convenient and compatible delivery method for most people.