What is two-factor authentication and what does it do?

It is an extra security step that provides more protection for an online account. By turning it on, every time you try to log into your account, you will be required to provide a password as well as a second piece of information that only you should know.

 

Who is this guide for?

Anyone who would like to strengthen their security and privacy on Facebook. It is especially for anyone who is concerned that an abusive person may be secretly getting access to their account. You can also look at Facebook’s own guide here: https://www.facebook.com/help/148233965247823.

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What does this guide cover?

• How to turn on two-factor authentication, an extra layer of security for your Facebook account.

• How to choose among different two-factor authentication methods to protect your account.

• Our guide might appear long because there are lots of screenshots included. (Images of the Facebook website are included below for educational and research purposes only.)

• Click here to view or download the PDF version of the guide.

 

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Before we start: 

• If the abuser has access to your account, they may know right away if you turn on two-factor authentication. Turning on two-factor authentication will lock other people out of your account even if they know the password.

• We strongly recommend that you talk to a domestic violence or other appropriate organization to make plans for your safety before you turn on two-factor authentication if you are worried about violence or threats.

• We have marked changes that could be visible to an abuser with the following sign:

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• You will need to be able to log into your Facebook account.

• It will help if you know whether you have already turned on two-factor authentication. For example, after you enter your password, do you also have to enter a code?

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