Secret Codes guide
Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication on iPhone: How It Works
By Muhammad Shahid · · 4 min read
Quick answer
The prerequisite for most other iPhone security features. Two-factor authentication means signing in on a new device needs your Apple Account password plus a six-digit code shown on a trusted device or sent to a trusted phone number. It is the default for most accounts now, and Apple Pay and Sign in with Apple require it.
Secret CodesDial codes, SIM & network test · Free on the App StoreDownload free →| What it does | The prerequisite for most other iPhone security features. |
|---|---|
| Published for | any iPhone |
| Type | iOS setting |
The prerequisite for most other iPhone security features. This page explains what it does, how to use it on an iPhone and which carriers it applies to.
I build Secret Codes: IMEI & Carrier, a free iPhone app with 317 checked codes and guides, including this one. If you would rather tap than memorise, get Secret Codes on the App Store.
What is Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication?
Two-factor authentication means signing in on a new device needs your Apple Account password plus a six-digit code shown on a trusted device or sent to a trusted phone number. It is the default for most accounts now, and Apple Pay and Sign in with Apple require it.
It is worth checking rather than assuming, because several protections depend on it. Stolen Device Protection cannot be turned on without it. And Apple notes that without two-factor authentication you cannot erase a device remotely from the Find My app — you have to use iCloud.com instead.
One caveat about turning it on: if you enable it now, you can still lower your account security within two weeks of enrolment. After that it is permanent, and accounts created with it can never have it removed.
How do I do it?
- Open Settings and tap your name at the top.
- Tap Sign-In and Security.
- Check whether two-factor authentication is on, and turn it on if not.
- Review your trusted phone numbers and remove any you no longer control.
- Confirm Stolen Device Protection is available once two-factor is active.
Which carriers does this apply to?
| Published for | any iPhone |
|---|---|
| Type | iOS setting |
| Good to know | Every current iPhone. Already on for most Apple Accounts, but worth confirming. |
Related security and scam reporting
- Activation Lock
- Check A Phone Against The Stolen List
- Mark A Lost iPhone As Lost
- Stolen Device Protection
- Turn Off Email-To-Text On Verizon
- Report A Call To T-Mobile Scam Shield
See all security and scam reporting or every category of iPhone codes.
How Secret Codes helps
Secret Codes keeps this and every other entry a search away. Pick your carrier once and each entry says whether it is published for your line. You can save favourites, add a private note, and record whether a code worked on your line.
Frequently asked questions
What is Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication on iPhone?
The prerequisite for most other iPhone security features. Two-factor authentication means signing in on a new device needs your Apple Account password plus a six-digit code shown on a trusted device or sent to a trusted phone number.
What else should I know about Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication?
It is the default for most accounts now, and Apple Pay and Sign in with Apple require it. It is worth checking rather than assuming, because several protections depend on it. Stolen Device Protection cannot be turned on without it.
What are the steps for Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication?
1. Open Settings and tap your name at the top. 2. Tap Sign-In and Security. 3. Check whether two-factor authentication is on, and turn it on if not. 4. Review your trusted phone numbers and remove any you no longer control. 5. Confirm Stolen Device Protection is available once two-factor is active.
Where do I find Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication?
In the Settings app on your iPhone.
Is there a dial code for Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication?
No. On iPhone this is not a dial code, so you use the steps on this page instead.
Which carriers does Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication work on?
It is published for any iPhone. Every current iPhone. Already on for most Apple Accounts, but worth confirming.
Does Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication work on Android phones too?
These steps are for iPhone. Android phones have their own menus.
Will Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication work outside the US?
The iPhone steps stay the same, although some features depend on your carrier and region.
What if Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication does not work on my iPhone?
Check that it applies to your carrier first, because carriers decide which services they offer and can change them. If it should apply to your line, contact your carrier.
What is related to Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication?
Activation Lock. Why a stolen iPhone is worth far less than a stolen Android.
What else is in this category?
Check A Phone Against The Stolen List. The industry IMEI blocklist, searchable before you buy.
Can I find Apple Account Two-Factor Authentication in an app?
Yes. Secret Codes, a free iPhone app, includes it with its steps and carrier details.
Sources
Secret CodesDownload free
