Facebook requires users to enter a confirmation code in certain situations, such as when logging in from a new device or resetting your password. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to enter a confirmation code on Facebook using either text message or authentication app options.
What is a Facebook confirmation code?
A Facebook confirmation code is a 6-digit temporary code that Facebook sends you via text or authentication app to confirm your identity. It is an extra security measure to prevent unauthorized access to your account. You may need to enter a code when:
- Logging into Facebook from a new device for the first time
- Resetting your Facebook password
- Making changes to your account recovery options
- Confirming your identity if Facebook detects suspicious activity
Once you enter the correct confirmation code, you will be granted access to your Facebook account. The code expires after a short time and cannot be reused.
How to get a Facebook confirmation code via text message
To receive a Facebook confirmation code through text message:
- Go to www.facebook.com and click on “Forgot password?” or try to log in from an unrecognized device.
- Facebook will prompt you to enter your phone number associated with your account.
- Enter your phone number and click “Continue.”
- Facebook will send a 6-digit confirmation code via text message to that phone number.
- Enter the code Facebook texted you and click “Continue.”
- You will now be able to reset your password or access your account from the new device.
Things to note
- Ensure your phone number listed on your Facebook account is current so you can receive the code.
- The code expires shortly after sending, so enter it on Facebook right away.
- If you don’t receive the code, you can request Facebook to send it again.
- If you no longer have access to the phone number on your account, you can use alternative options to verify your identity below.
How to get a Facebook confirmation code via authentication app
Facebook also allows you to receive a confirmation code through an authentication app like Google Authenticator or Duo Mobile rather than text message. To do this:
- Download and install an authentication app on your smartphone (Authenticator or Authy are popular options).
- Go to your Facebook Settings and select “Security and Login.”
- Under “Use two-factor authentication” click “Edit.”
- Click “Add Authentication App” and follow prompts to set up the app and scan a QR code.
- The next time Facebook needs to confirm your identity, it will prompt your authentication app to generate a 6-digit code.
- Enter the code from the app and click “Continue” to verify your identity.
Benefits of using an authentication app
- You don’t have to rely on cell phone reception or having your phone available.
- Extra layer of security beyond just a texted code.
- Codes can be generated offline.
What to do if you can’t get a code
In some situations, you may be unable to access the phone number or authentication app associated with your Facebook account to obtain a confirmation code. If this happens, you have a few options to try to still securely log in:
Use backup codes
When you set up two-factor authentication on Facebook, it generates several one-time backup codes you can use in place of the normal confirmation code. If you have any backup codes left, enter one on the Facebook confirmation screen.
Try another verification method
Facebook allows you to set up multiple verification methods on your account. You can have a code sent via text, authentication app, and email. If you’re unable to access one method, try having the code sent through another option if set up.
Contact trusted friends to remove 2FA
As a last resort, you can have trusted friends or family remove two-factor authentication from your account so you can reset your password with just your email address. You’ll need to provide them with a special link from Facebook.
Submit ID to Facebook
If you cannot access your account at all, you can submit government-issued ID to Facebook to prove your identity. This should only be used in worst-case scenarios.
Tips for using Facebook confirmation codes
- Save backup codes in a safe place in case you ever lose access to your primary verification method.
- Add multiple trusted phone numbers/emails on your account in case your primary one is unavailable.
- Set up a secondary authentication app as a backup if you don’t have mobile service.
- Don’t click on suspicious links asking you to enter a code or reset your password.
Conclusion
Facebook confirmation codes provide an important extra layer of security for your account. When prompted by Facebook, enter the 6-digit code you receive either from text, authentication app, or backup code. Make sure to set up multiple verification methods you can access if needed. With the proper preparation, confirmation codes are a quick and easy way to securely access your Facebook account.
| Situation | How to Get Code |
|---|---|
| Forgot password | Request code via text or authentication app |
| New device login | Code sent automatically via text or authentication app |
| Suspicious activity detected | Facebook prompts code via your verification method |
| Can’t get code | Use backup code, secondary method, contact friends, submit ID |
Here are the key steps again to enter a Facebook confirmation code:
- Initiate password reset or login from new device
- Enter phone number when prompted
- Receive 6-digit code via text or authentication app
- Enter code on Facebook confirmation screen
- Access account after successful verification
Facebook confirmation codes are an important security feature to keep your account safe from unauthorized access. With some preparation, you can easily manage and enter codes when prompted to securely access your Facebook account.
Some key points covered in this article include:
- Facebook uses 6-digit codes to confirm identity
- Codes are sent via text, authentication app, or backup codes
- Use codes to reset password, access new devices, increased security
- Make sure your mobile number/email is updated
- Have backup options like authentication apps or trusted contacts
- Enter code promptly before it expires
- Follow onscreen instructions when prompted for code
In summary, Facebook’s confirmation codes provide an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized access. When Facebook prompts you for a code via text, app, or other method, be sure to enter it quickly on the Facebook screen to verify your identity. Set up backup verification methods in case your primary option is unavailable. With the proper preparation, confirmation codes are easy to manage and a safe way to prove your identity on Facebook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a confirmation code for Facebook?
Facebook uses confirmation codes as an extra security measure when there is suspicious activity detected, you are logging in from a new device, resetting your password, and other important account actions. The code helps confirm your identity and prevent unauthorized access.
How long do Facebook confirmation codes last?
Facebook confirmation codes expire after about 10 minutes. Therefore, it’s important to enter the code into Facebook soon after receiving it via text or authentication app.
I’m not receiving the Facebook confirmation code. What should I do?
First, make sure the phone number listed on your Facebook account is current. If it is, try resending the code or requesting it through a different verification method you have set up. As a last resort, you can submit a copy of your ID to Facebook to confirm your identity.
Do I have to use a Facebook confirmation code every time I login?
No, you will only be prompted for a confirmation code when logging in from a new, unrecognized device or if suspicious activity is detected. You won’t need a code when logging in normally from a trusted device.
Can I remove the Facebook confirmation code requirement?
Yes, you can disable two-factor authentication which requires confirmation codes to be entered. However, this removes an important security layer protecting your account from unauthorized access.
Useful Resources
Here are some useful resources for more information about Facebook confirmation codes:
- Facebook’s 2-Factor Authentication Help Center
- Facebook: What is Code Generator and how does it work?
- A Guide to Using Authy for Facebook Login
- Facebook: I can’t scan my confirmation code
- Facebook: Managing Backup Codes
Facebook confirmation codes help secure your account by requiring an extra step to verify your identity. By receiving the codes through text, authentication apps, or backup codes, you can conveniently and securely access your Facebook account when prompted. Just be sure to enter codes promptly before they expire.
In this article, we covered when Facebook sends confirmation codes, how to receive them through text/app, what to do if you can’t access your verification method, tips for managing codes, and additional resources. With proper setup, confirmation codes are a quick extra step to enhance the security of your Facebook account against unauthorized access.
Summary
The key points covered in this article include:
- Facebook uses 6-digit confirmation codes to confirm identity
- You’ll need a code when resetting password, new device login, suspicious activity
- Codes can be sent via text, authentication app, or backup codes
- Make sure your mobile number and emails are current
- Set up backup verification methods like authentication apps
- Enter codes quickly before they expire, usually within 10 minutes
- Follow onscreen instructions when Facebook prompts for a code
- Confirmation codes add an extra layer of security to your account
By understanding when you need confirmation codes, how to receive them, and what to do if you encounter issues, you can easily verify your identity when prompted and securely access your Facebook account.