How to Turn On & Off Two-Factor Authentication
Facebook’s two-factor authentication (2FA) provides more protection. To access your account, a second verification method is needed. This layer of protection keeps your account safe.
Some users, nevertheless, could find it inconvenient. I’ll assist you if you’ve made the decision to disable it. I’ll go over how to enable or disable 2FA on the Facebook website and app. We’ll also go over how to disable it without logging in. To comprehend each step in plain English, follow along.
How to Enable Two-Factor Authentication on Facebook
Facebook users can add an additional layer of protection by turning on two-factor authentication (2FA). In order to access your account, this procedure needs both your password and a verification code. Here’s a quick, easy tutorial on configuring 2FA for your Facebook account.
Advertisements: Why Should Facebook Allow Two-Factor Authentication?
A security technique called two-factor authentication involves two steps:
Your password is something you are aware of.
Something you own (a code texted to your mobile device).
Even if they know your password, unauthorized individuals cannot access your account when 2FA is enabled. It offers robust protection and helps keep hackers out of your account.
How to Enable Two-Factor Authentication on Facebook App
Here’s how to enable 2FA if you’re using the Facebook app on your phone.
- Launch the Facebook app: First, launch the Facebook app on your smartphone.
- Navigate to Settings: Depending on your device, tap the menu symbol (three lines) in the upper or lower right corner. Choose Settings > Settings & Privacy.
- Open the Accounts Center: Locate and select Accounts Center from the Settings menu.
- Choose Security and Password: In the Accounts Center, select Security and Password.
- Press the Two-Factor Authentication button. Choose two-factor authentication from the Password and Security menu.
- Select Your 2FA Approach: Facebook provides a number of two-factor authentication options:
- Text Message (SMS): Your phone number will receive a code from Facebook.
- Authentication App: To obtain verification codes, use an app such as Google Authenticator.
- Security Key: You are welcome to use a physical security key if you possess one.
- Follow the On-Screen directions: To finish the setup process, adhere to Facebook’s directions based on your preference.
- Enter Verification Code: You will be given a code if you are using an authenticator app or SMS. To complete the setup, enter this code.
Your Facebook app will enable two-factor authentication after you finish these instructions.
How to Enable Two-Factor Authentication on Facebook Website
For extra security, you can also turn on 2FA if your computer is running a web browser. Here’s how to configure it.
- Open Facebook and log in: Launch the web browser of your choice, navigate to Facebook.com, and log in.
- To access Settings, click the downward arrow in the upper right corner of your profile image. Choose Settings > Settings & Privacy.
- Visit the Accounts Center: Select Accounts Center from the sidebar on the left.
- Choose Security and Password: Navigate to Password and Security in the Accounts Center.
- Select the option for two-factor authentication. Locate two-factor authentication under Password and Security, then click to activate it.
- Select Your 2FA Approach: Facebook will present you with three choices:
- Text message (SMS) for a code that is based on a phone.
- A third-party app’s authentication app.
- A physical key’s security key.
- Finish the Setup: To finish the setup, adhere to the on-screen directions. Facebook will send a code to your phone if you selected SMS. If you’re using an app, a code will be displayed for you to input.
- Verify Your Code: To complete turning on 2FA, enter the verification code that was issued to your phone or app.
Your Facebook account has now enabled two-factor authentication for web browser access.
Recommended Steps for a Secure 2FA Setup
After turning on 2FA, heed these extra suggestions to optimize account security:
- Facebook provides recovery codes as a backup, so save them. If you misplace your phone or other device, these can help you access your account, so keep them in a secure location.
- Use Trusted Devices: To avoid requiring a verification code each time, you can designate frequently used devices as “trusted.”
- Activate Alerts for Login: To be informed of new logins, enable login alerts.
How to Turn Off Two-Factor Authentication on Facebook App
The Facebook app makes it simple to disable 2FA. If you wish to turn it off, carefully follow these procedures.
- Launch the Facebook app: First, launch the Facebook app on your mobile device.
- Go to the Account Settings: On the upper or lower right corner of the screen, tap the menu (three lines). Next, choose Accounts Center under Settings & Privacy > Settings.
- Navigate to Security and Password: Locate and hit Password and Security in the Accounts Center.
- Turn off 2FA for WhatsApp or SMS: If you have 2FA enabled on WhatsApp or SMS, take these actions:
Select “two-factor authentication.”
Select WhatsApp or SMS.
Turn off WhatsApp or SMS, then press Turn Off to confirm.
Turn off 2FA in the authentication app: If you make use of an app for third-party authentication:
- Choose the Authentication app from the same two-factor authentication screen.
- Turn off the option for the authentication app.
- To confirm, select Turn Off.
- The Facebook app’s two-factor authentication will be disabled if you follow these instructions.
Steps to Turn Off Two-Factor Authentication on Facebook Website
You can also disable two-factor authentication if you’re on a computer. Here’s how to use the Facebook website to accomplish this.
- Open Facebook and log in: Launch a web browser, navigate to Facebook.com, and sign in using your credentials.
- Go to the Account Settings: In the upper right corner of the screen, next to your profile image, click the arrow icon. Choose Settings & Privacy > Settings from the dropdown menu.
- Open the Accounts Center: Click on Accounts Center in the sidebar on the left.
- Open Security and Password: Locate and select Password and Security in the Accounts Center.
- Disable 2FA in Text Messages: If you used your mobile number to set up 2FA, do the following:
- Choose two-factor authentication.
- Select “Text Message.”
- Click Turn Off to confirm turning off text messaging.
- Disable the Authenticator App’s 2FA: If you utilized a 2FA app from a third party:
- On the two-factor authentication screen, select the Authentication app.
- Turn off the option for the authentication app.
- Choose Turn Off from the prompt to confirm.
You may quickly turn off two-factor authentication on Facebook’s website by following these instructions.
How to Turn Off Two-Factor Authentication Without Logging In
You can occasionally lose access to the device you use to log in. Here’s how to disable 2FA without logging in if that occurs.
Set Up Backup Methods for Future Ease
Set up backup 2FA methods to prevent lockout. To make logging in easier in the event of problems, follow these instructions.
- Navigate to Account Settings: After choosing Settings & Privacy, press Settings after tapping your profile image.
- Include Reliable Devices: Manage the devices that are trusted for login under Password and Security. You can bypass 2FA codes on trusted devices.
- Turn on backup techniques: Establish backup procedures such as:
- Authentication app
- Security key
- Recovery codes
In the event that your primary device is lost, these backups are helpful.
Disable 2FA Without Your Primary Device
You can disable 2FA from a different device if you have a backup method set up.
- Log in from an Authorized Device: Make use of a backup device that you have previously used to log in.
- Log in by going to Security: Go to the login and security settings.
- Disable Two-Factor Verification: Click to open two-factor authentication after finding it. An option to disable 2FA will appear; make sure you select it.
Bypass 2FA If Completely Locked Out
If you haven’t made backups and are completely locked out, do these actions.
- Use Your Typical Device: Attempt to log in using a device that you are acquainted with. Facebook might identify you and run fewer checks.
- Ask for More Assistance: Choose Did you not get a code? and select “Get More Help.”
- Provide ID Proof: Facebook may ask for identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Password Reset: Click the “Forgot password?” button. Reset your password, input the code, and confirm your email. You can disable 2FA and recover access by doing this.
Why You May Want to Turn Off Two-Factor Authentication
Although two-factor authentication increases security, some users may find it inconvenient. These are some typical explanations for why users might disable it.
- Convenience: Without a verification code, logging in is quicker. Particularly with reliable devices, some users feel that this extra step is superfluous.
- Lost Access to Verification Method: Disabling 2FA will assist prevent login problems in the event that you lose access to your 2FA device or verification method.
- Additional Security Steps: In the absence of two-factor authentication, many individuals rely on strong passwords or login alerts, which can offer sufficient protection.
Note: Turning off 2FA does make your account more vulnerable. If you decide to turn it off, think about other security measures like keeping an eye on your login history and changing your passwords frequently.
Tips for Securing Your Facebook Account After Turning Off 2FA
It’s crucial to use other security measures to protect your Facebook account if you disable two-factor authentication. Here are some pointers:
- Employ a Strong Password: Unauthorized access can be avoided with the aid of a strong password. Make use of a distinctive combination of symbols, numbers, and letters.
- Turn on Login Alerts: Turn on login alerts to receive alerts whenever a user checks in from a different device.
- Review Active Sessions Frequently: Go to Security and Login and look at the Where You’re Logged In area. This enables you to view and eliminate any sessions that are unfamiliar.
- Don’t Click on Dubious Links: Links from unidentified sources should be avoided, even if they come from friends.
- Frequently Change Passwords: For increased security, change your password every few months. Don’t use the same password for several accounts.
By following these guidelines, you may protect your account without using two-factor authentication.
Risks of Turning Off Two-Factor Authentication
Disabling 2FA speeds up the login process, however there are hazards involved. The following justifies giving it great thought before turning it off:
- Increased Risk of Unauthorized Access: Your account is completely dependent on your password in the absence of two-factor authentication. Weak or frequently used passwords make it simple for hackers to access accounts.
- Vulnerability to Personal Information: Facebook retains personal information, including photographs and contact details. When 2FA is disabled, this data becomes more susceptible to attack.
- Difficulty Recovering Hacked Accounts: Without two-factor authentication, recovering a compromised account becomes more difficult.
For these reasons, if you value the security of your Facebook account, it is strongly advised that you maintain 2FA activated.
Alternative Security Features to Use
Other security features are available on Facebook if you decide to turn off two-factor authentication. You can still use these features to protect your account.
- Establish trusted contacts in case you are unable to access them. You can get your account back with the help of these contacts.
- Security Checkup: To examine and modify your security settings, use Facebook’s Security Checkup tool.
- Facebook gives you the ability to control an Authorized Device List. When you don’t need additional security codes, this function helps you keep track of trusted devices.
You may increase security without using 2FA by utilizing these options.
FAQs
1. Why would I want to turn off two-factor authentication on Facebook?
Two-factor authentication is troublesome for certain users, particularly those who frequently transfer devices or misplace their phone. Disabling it can make logging in easier, but account security is compromised. Only if you feel comfortable handling other security settings is it advised.
2. Will turning off two-factor authentication make my account less secure?
Indeed, turning off two-factor authentication eliminates an extra layer of protection, which makes it simpler for someone with your password to get unwanted access. Facebook advises keeping 2FA turned on to guard against account hacking.
3. How can I turn off two-factor authentication if I don’t have my phone?
You can utilize backup codes, trusted devices, or another device that you are already logged into if you lose access to your phone. To regain access to your account without your primary device, you can also use Facebook’s “Get More Help” option.
4. Can I turn off two-factor authentication on both the app and website?
Yes, you may turn off two-factor authentication on Facebook’s website and app. Using the Accounts Center and Password and Security settings on both systems, the procedure is comparable. Observe the detailed instructions on each station.
5. What should I do if I forgot my password after turning off two-factor authentication?
You can utilize the Forgotten Password option on the login page if you can’t remember your password. To reset your password, Facebook will send a code to the phone number or email address you provided. For increased security after a reset, think about turning on two-factor authentication once more.
The Final Thoughts
While turning Facebook’s two-factor authentication on or off can make logging in easier, it also lowers security. This tutorial explains how to quickly disable 2FA on websites, apps, and when you’re locked out.
It’s a good idea to maintain 2FA enabled for account security. If you disable it, though, think about utilizing additional security features like login notifications and strong passwords. Even without two-factor authentication, you can keep your Facebook account safe and secure by adhering to these guidelines.