How to turn on two-factor authentication for TikTok
Last checked
Short answer
Where the setting is
On TikTok, which calls it 2-step verification, the setting is Profile, then Menu, then Settings and privacy, then Security & permissions, then 2-step verification.
TikTok asks you to choose at least two verification methods: Phone, Email, Authenticator or Password. Its page marks Phone, Email and Authenticator as recommended. For the authenticator method it says: “You’ll need a third-party authenticator app”.
The steps are done in the TikTok app. They are the “To turn on 2-step verification” steps on TikTok’s “Account safety” page.
Tap the Menu button at the top, then select Settings and privacy.
Tap Security & permissions.
Tap 2-step verification and choose at least two verification methods: Phone (recommended), Email (recommended), Authenticator (recommended) or Password.
For Authenticator, follow the instructions provided on the next screen to scan the QR code or copy the key provided. Enter the key on the authenticator app when you add an account for TikTok. Finally, enter the code provided by the authenticator app on the next screen in the TikTok app.
Tap Turn on to confirm.
If you choose Phone or Email, you’ll be prompted to enter your email address or phone number if you haven’t previously entered your contact information. Standard SMS fees may apply. Tap Continue, then enter the verification code sent to you via SMS or email.
TikTok’s page names two specific apps in its authenticator sentence. This guide does not repeat them. After you turn it on, TikTok says the next time you log in you’ll be prompted to enter a verification code, sent to your phone number, your email address or your authenticator app, depending on the methods you chose.
Backup
Save your backup codes
The steps on TikTok’s page don’t mention backup codes. Because TikTok asks for at least two methods, choose one besides the authenticator app, so you have another way in. If you ever lose the phone, see our guide on what to do if you lose your phone.
