How to Enable 2FA on Amazon: Step-by-Step Guide
Your Amazon account contains sensitive information: payment methods, order history, and personal details. Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a critical layer of protection by requiring a second form of verification before anyone can access your account, even if they have your password.
In this guide, we'll walk you through setting up 2FA on Amazon step-by-step. The process takes less than 5 minutes and can prevent account takeover.
Why Enable 2FA on Amazon?
- Prevent account takeover: Even if your password is compromised, attackers can't access your account without the second factor.
- Protect your payment methods: Your credit cards and bank accounts linked to Amazon are safer with 2FA.
- Secure your orders: Attackers can't change your address or place unauthorized orders.
- Peace of mind: Know your account is protected 24/7.
Amazon's 2FA Options
Amazon offers several 2FA methods, ranked by security:
- Authenticator App (Most Secure) — Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator
- Text Message (SMS) — A code sent to your phone
- Email — A code sent to your email address
Recommendation: Use an authenticator app for maximum security. Learn which authenticator app is best for you.
How to Enable 2FA on Amazon: Step-by-Step
1Go to Your Account Settings
- Visit amazon.com and sign in
- Click your name in the top-right corner
- Select "Your Account"
- Scroll down and click "Login & security"
2Find Two-Step Verification Setting
- Look for the section labeled "Two-Step Verification (2SV)"
- Click the "Edit" button next to it
3Choose Your 2FA Method
Amazon will ask how you want to receive your verification code:
- Authenticator App (recommended) — Uses an app like Google Authenticator
- Text Message — Code sent via SMS
- Email — Code sent to your email
Select your preferred method and click "Continue"
If You Choose an Authenticator App:
4aScan the QR Code
- Amazon will display a QR code
- Open your authenticator app (Google Authenticator, Authy, etc.)
- Tap the "+" or "Add" button in your app
- Choose "Scan QR Code"
- Point your phone camera at the Amazon QR code
- The authenticator app will automatically add your Amazon account
5aEnter the Verification Code
- Your authenticator app will display a 6-digit code
- Enter this code into Amazon's prompt
- Click "Continue"
If You Choose Text Message (SMS):
4bVerify Your Phone Number
- Confirm your phone number is correct
- Click "Send Code to [phone number]"
- Check your SMS for Amazon's verification code
- Enter the 6-digit code into Amazon's prompt
Save Your Backup Codes
This step is critical! Amazon will provide backup codes. Save these codes in a secure location, such as:
- Your password manager (Bitwarden, 1Password, etc.)
- A printed copy stored in a safe
- A secure note app
Why? If you lose access to your authenticator app or phone, these backup codes let you regain access to your Amazon account.
You're Done!
Once you've confirmed your code, 2FA is now enabled on your Amazon account. From now on, whenever you sign in from a new device, Amazon will ask for your verification code.
What to Do If You Lose Your Phone
If your phone is lost or damaged:
- Go to amazon.com and try to sign in
- When prompted for your 2FA code, click "Having trouble?"
- Select "I don't have access to my authenticator app"
- Enter one of your backup codes
- Once signed in, set up 2FA on your new phone
Trusted Devices
Amazon will ask if you want to "trust" the device you're signing in from. If you click "Yes," Amazon won't ask for a verification code the next time you sign in from that device. This is convenient for home computers, but don't trust shared computers or public devices.