How to Enable Two-Factor Authentication Security on Amazon Accounts

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an important security feature that adds an extra layer of protection to your online accounts. With 2FA enabled, logging into your Amazon account requires two forms of identification – your password as well as a temporary code generated by an authenticator app or sent via SMS.

Enabling 2FA helps prevent unauthorized access to your Amazon account even if your password is compromised. As an online security expert with over 10 years of experience, I highly recommend enabling 2FA on all important online accounts including Amazon.

Why You Should Enable 2FA on Your Amazon Account

Here are some key reasons why enabling 2FA is critical for Amazon account security:

  • Prevents password-based hacking – With 2FA, a password alone is not enough for someone to log into your account. This adds a strong second layer of protection on top of your password.
  • Alerts you to suspicious login attempts – If someone tries accessing your Amazon account from an unrecognized device, you will get an alert prompting you to approve or deny the login attempt. This lets you identify unauthorized access attempts.
  • Secures purchases and payment info – 2FA protects all personal and payment information stored in your Amazon account from fraudulent access and misuse. This includes your shipping address, payment methods, order history etc.
  • Peace of mind – Having 2FA enabled lets you shop and manage your Amazon account with confidence knowing that your account has strong security protections in place.

How to Set Up 2FA on Amazon Accounts

Enabling 2FA on your Amazon account is simple and straightforward. Just follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Access Your Amazon Account Security Settings

  • Log into your Amazon account then go to Account > Login & Security.
  • Under Login Settings, click Edit next to Two-Step Verification.

2. Enable Two-Step Verification

  • On the Two-Step Verification page, click Get Started.
  • Select your preferred 2FA method – Authentication App or SMS Text Message.

3. Set Up Your Preferred 2FA Method

There are two options for receiving 2FA codes:

A. Authentication App

This uses an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy to generate time-based 2FA codes.

  • Install the app then scan the QR code shown in your Amazon account. This syncs your account with the app.
  • Enter the 6-digit code shown in the app and click Verify Code.

B. SMS Text Messages

This sends a 2FA code via text message to your phone when you sign in.

  • Enter your phone number and click Send code.
  • Enter the code received via text and click Verify.

4. Confirm Two-Step Verification Setup

After setting up 2FA using your preferred method, Amazon will confirm that 2FA is enabled for added account security.

You’re all set! Going forward, you’ll need to enter your password + a 2FA code when logging into your Amazon account from new devices.

Tips for Using 2FA Effectively

Here are some tips to get the most security value out of using 2FA on your Amazon account:

  • Use it consistently – Don’t disable 2FA after setting it up. Leaving it on permanently enhances your account security.
  • Don’t reuse 2FA codes – Never enter the same 2FA code twice. Reusing codes undermines their security value.
  • Secure your 2FA device – If using an authenticator app for codes, don’t lose or reformat your smartphone without backing up your app’s data.
  • Know account recovery options – Save any backup 2FA codes Amazon provides during setup. These are needed if you ever lose access to your primary 2FA method.

Conclusion