Two-step verification is a vital security system that adds an extra layer of protection beyond the traditional password, safeguarding us against potential password theft. Amazon is one of the many websites that employ this robust security measure. However, like any system, two-step verification may encounter issues or be forgotten, potentially locking you out of your Amazon account. So, what can you do in such a situation?
For those who have activated two-step verification on Amazon, the process involves receiving a unique security code on your mobile device after entering your password correctly. As explained on Amazon’s official website, “When you attempt to access your account, two-step verification sends a unique security code. When you enable two-step verification, you can opt to receive the security code via SMS, a voice call, or an authentication app.”
Activating or Deactivating Two-Step Verification
If you’re new to two-step verification or wish to enable it, you can do so from your Amazon account. Here are the simple steps:
- Go to the “My account” section.
- Navigate to the “Login and security” section.
- Click on the “Edit” option displayed on the screen.
- Choose the “Set up two-step verification (2SV)” option.
You can activate or deactivate two-step verification based on your preference. However, it’s essential to note that disabling this feature may lower your account’s security.
When Two-Step Verification Fails
What should you do if you have two-step verification activated, but it doesn’t work? If you don’t receive the security code, accessing your Amazon account can become challenging. Typically, using a device where you’re already logged in or waiting for the code to arrive solves the issue. However, if these methods fail, you need to know how to recover your account.
Amazon cannot deactivate this security feature without verifying your identity, as the primary purpose of two-step verification is to ensure that only the account holder can access the profile. To regain access, you must prove your identity. Here’s how:
- Visit the Amazon website to reset your account with two-step verification.
- Amazon will guide you through the steps required to verify your identity. You’ll need to provide a photo or scan of a government-issued identification document to prove it’s you.
Accepted identification documents include:
- A state-issued driver’s license.
- A state identification card.
- A registered voter card.
- A national identity card.
- A passport.
Ensure that any sensitive information on the document, such as account numbers or identification numbers, is obscured, hidden, or removed. Additionally, make sure your name, address, and the issuing entity are clearly visible.
- Once you have taken the photo or scanned the document, upload it to the provided website. Supported file types include DOC, DOCX, JPG, JPEG, PDF, PJPEG, and PNG.
- Click “Submit.”
The process typically takes approximately two days, after which you will receive an email notification at the address associated with your Amazon account. Once completed, you can log in with just your password, regaining full access to your Amazon account.
In conclusion, Amazon’s two-step verification is a critical security feature, but it’s important to know how to recover your account if you encounter issues. By following these steps and verifying your identity, you can ensure your Amazon account remains secure and accessible.