Getting a text message with a Facebook code can be confusing and concerning. Here are some common reasons why you may have received a text with a Facebook verification code:
You requested a login code from Facebook
If you requested a login code from Facebook, they will text you a 6-digit code to verify your identity and allow you to login. This often happens when you are logging into Facebook from a new device, or if you have enabled 2-factor authentication on your account.
Facebook’s automated security system detected suspicious activity on your account, such as an attempted login from a new location, and sent you a code as a precaution. Entering this code proves you are the legitimate account owner trying to log in.
Someone else requested a code to access your account
If someone else knows your Facebook login credentials, they may have attempted to log in as you and prompted Facebook to send a code. This could be a friend or family member borrowing your phone or computer, or it could be a sign your account was compromised.
Facebook sends the code to your verified mobile number when it detects an unrecognized login attempt to confirm it is really you. If you did not initiate the login, it is best not to give out the code. Change your Facebook password immediately to secure your account.
You enabled login approvals
If you have enabled login approvals on your Facebook account, you will be required to enter a code each time you login from a unrecognized device. This provides an extra layer of security beyond just a password.
When login approvals are on, Facebook will text you a code that is valid for 10 minutes anytime your account is accessed from a new location. You need to enter it along with your password to complete the login. This prevents unauthorized access even if someone knows your password.
Your number is associated with another Facebook account
It is possible you received a login code for Facebook because your mobile number is associated with another Facebook account you created in the past or someone else created. Facebook sends codes to the verified mobile numbers on file when a login is attempted.
If you have an old account you no longer use tied to that number, try logging in with your old credentials and changing the mobile number on file. If it is an account that does not belong to you, you will need to disassociate your number from it.
You have a new device
When accessing your Facebook account from a brand new device for the first time, such as a new phone, Facebook will send a code to your verified mobile number. This prevents unauthorized logins on unfamiliar devices.
Even if you regularly log in from your personal computer, Facebook may still text a code when you initially try to login from a work computer, friend’s phone, public computer, etc. Entering the code lets Facebook confirm it is really you trying to access your account from the new device.
Your account was hacked
Unfortunately, sometimes a text with a Facebook code means your account was hacked. If someone was able to access your account, they may have added a new mobile number or changed your verified number to receive login codes.
Other signs your Facebook was hacked include posts you did not make appearing on your timeline, chat messages sent that you did not send, new friend requests, or changes to your profile information. Take action immediately by securing your account.
You have malware on your device
If your smartphone or computer has malware such as a keylogger virus, it could be stealing your Facebook login information when you enter it. Criminals can then try to access your account, triggering Facebook to send a code to your phone number.
Run security scans to check your devices for malware. You should also change your Facebook password and remove any unfamiliar linked accounts or devices to secure it.
Your number was recycled
Mobile carriers will sometimes recycle inactive phone numbers and issue them to new customers. If you recently got a new phone number that was previously used by someone else, you may receive Facebook codes intended for the previous owner if they still have that number associated with their Facebook account.
In this case, there is not much you can do beyond letting the previous owner know they should update their contact information on their accounts. You can ask your carrier for a different number if it becomes a recurring problem.
You have a new SIM card
If you insert a new SIM card into your smartphone, Facebook may detect your mobile number is associated with a new device and send a login code as a security measure. For example, if you switch carrier networks and move your number to a new carrier SIM, Facebook will text a code to make sure it is still you trying to login.
You may also get an new SIM card code if you update your phone but move your existing SIM card to the new phone. Facebook does this to confirm your identity and prevent unauthorized logins anytime your mobile number changes devices.
You’re traveling internationally
When you travel internationally, Facebook may text you a login code if it notices your account being accessed from a new country for the first time. Because international travel is outside of your normal login patterns, this triggers Facebook’s security protocols.
To avoid issues while traveling, you can proactively turn on international travel notifications in your Facebook security settings. Doing so will prevent your international logins from prompting verification codes.
You have auto-login enabled
Many apps and browsers offer auto-login options that save your Facebook credentials so you don’t have to repeatedly type them in. However, if auto-login is enabled on a device that Facebook doesn’t recognize, it may text you a code to confirm it’s really you.
For example, Facebook may text a code if you restore your cookies or switch to a new web browser that has your Facebook login saved. Disabling auto-login can prevent these types of unnecessary codes, but you will have to type your password each time.
Conclusion
In summary, there are a few legitimate reasons why Facebook may unexpectedly text you a login code. These include account security precautions, logging in from new devices or locations, and two-factor authentication. However, unexpected Facebook codes can also be a sign of a compromised account, hacked device, or recycled number.
If you receive a Facebook code out of the blue, it’s smart to change your password and double check recently used devices and locations on your account. Enable any available extra login protections under your Facebook security settings. This can help confirm any future texts are valid and prevent unauthorized account access.
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| You requested a login code from Facebook | Facebook sends a code when you try to login from a new device or have 2FA enabled. |
| Someone else requested a code to access your account | A code is sent if someone tries to login as you from a new device. Change your password if you did not initiate. |
| You enabled login approvals | With login approvals on, Facebook will text you a code each time you login from a new device. |
| Your number is associated with another Facebook account | Facebook sends codes to all verified mobile numbers associated with accounts. |
| You have a new device | Facebook sends a code when you initially login from any new, unrecognized device. |
| Your account was hacked | If your account was compromised, hackers may have added a new number to receive your codes. |
| You have malware on your device | Keylogger malware can steal your Facebook login details and trigger Facebook to send a code. |
| Your number was recycled | If your new number was previously used by another Facebook user, you may get their codes. |
| You have a new SIM card | Facebook detects your number is associated with a new device when you get a new SIM and sends a code. |
| You’re traveling internationally | Facebook may text a code when you login from a new country for the first time. |
| You have auto-login enabled | Auto-login on a new or unrecognized device can prompt Facebook to send a code. |
When to be concerned about Facebook codes
In most cases, a login code from Facebook is nothing to worry about and is simply an account security measure. However, there are a few situations where you should be concerned if you receive an unexpected Facebook code:
- You did not request the code or initiate a login – This could mean someone else is trying to access your account.
- The code is tied to an account you don’t own – Someone may have mistakenly associated your number with their account.
- You see suspicious posts or account changes – Your account may have been hacked if you see unusual activity.
- You keep getting repeated codes – Repeated codes could indicate an attempted attack on your account.
- You have new unrecognized devices linked – Check your account for any unfamiliar linked devices.
If you have any concerns about an unexpected Facebook code, it is a good idea to take precautionary measures like changing your password, reviewing recently used devices, and enabling enhanced security options like two-factor authentication.
What to do when you get a suspicious Facebook code
If a Facebook code raises red flags, here are the steps you should take to secure your account:
- Do not enter the code anywhere – Provide the code only if you requested it.
- Change your Facebook password immediately – Pick a strong, unique password.
- Remove any unrecognized linked accounts and devices – These may have been added by hackers.
- Run antivirus scans on your devices – Scan for malware or keyloggers that could be stealing credentials.
- Turn on login approvals – Require a code for all logins moving forward.
- Review account activity – Check for any posts or messages you did not send.
- Report suspicious activity to Facebook – Alert Facebook of any unusual behavior.
Taking quick action when you receive a suspicious login code can help secure your account and prevent any further unauthorized access. If you believe your account has been hacked, alert Facebook right away so they can take additional measures to protect your account.
How to avoid Facebook login codes
While Facebook codes provide an important account security function, some users may find the frequent codes annoying or inconvenient. Here are some tips to avoid getting unnecessary Facebook login approval codes:
- Disable login approvals – This removes the requirement to enter a code every time.
- Remove unfamiliar linked devices – Only keep your own recognized devices linked.
- Turn off auto-login – Auto-login triggers codes on new devices.
- Maintain up-to-date account info – Keep your verified number and devices current.
- Use Facebook’s mobile apps – Mobile apps don’t prompt codes as often as the web login.
- Notify Facebook of travel – International travel notifications can prevent codes.
- Use device and browser reminders – This eliminates codes from your own devices.
While complete avoidance of Facebook login codes is difficult due to their security function, limiting them where possible provides a better user experience. You can customize Facebook security settings based on your own account usage, risk tolerance, and convenience preferences.
Facebook code scams
While most Facebook codes are legitimate, scammers have also adopted the tactic of sending fake Facebook codes by text or email to unsuspecting users. The goal is to trick you into providing the code to them, allowing access to your Facebook account.
Here are some tips to recognize Facebook code scams:
- Facebook only sends codes by text message – Email codes are always fake.
- Codes are only 6 digits long – Disregard longer numbers.
- Disregard distressed sounding messages – Scams urge urgency.
- Codes are never needed to “verify your account” – Facebook doesn’t contact you for this.
- Facebook never asks for your code directly – Only enter codes into Facebook itself.
If you receive any communication asking you to provide a Facebook login code, it’s almost certainly a scam attempt. Do not give out the code to anyone under any circumstances. Even communications claiming to be from Facebook support are untrustworthy – Facebook will never proactively reach out to request a code from you.
In summary…
Receiving an unexpected Facebook login code by text can be perplexing, but it is most often sent automatically by Facebook’s security systems to safeguard accounts. While usually harmless, codes can indicate unauthorized access attempts in some cases.
Always think twice before providing any Facebook codes. If in doubt, change your password and review your account’s security settings. Enable helpful options like two-factor authentication. And never give codes out to third parties, however credible they may seem.
Staying vigilant for Facebook code scams and taking precautions when you receive mysterious texts with codes can help keep your account secure from compromise.