How to Change Two-Factor Authentication on Instagram

Got a new phone and realized your Instagram two-factor authentication is still tied to your old device? Or maybe you're finally ready to switch from less-secure SMS codes to a proper authenticator app. Whatever your reason, managing your Instagram 2FA is a straightforward process when you know where to look. This tutorial will walk you through exactly how to change your two-factor authentication method, move it to a new device, and what to do if you've lost access entirely.

Why Your Two-Factor Authentication Method Matters

Before we jump into the steps, it's worth taking a second to understand why this matters so much. Two-factor authentication adds a vital layer of security to your account. Even if a hacker steals your password, they can't log in without the second piece of information: a temporary code from your phone. For creators, marketers, and brands, this isn't just a suggestion, it's a mandatory step to protect your content, audience, and reputation.

There is a definite hierarchy when it comes to authentication methods. Understanding the differences will help you make the best choice for your account's safety.

The Three Types of 2FA on Instagram

Instagram offers a few ways to secure your account. Here's a quick breakdown from most to least secure:

• Authentication App (Recommended): This is the gold standard of 2FA. Apps like Google Authenticator, Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator generate a fresh 6-digit code every 30-60 seconds directly on your device. Since the code never travels over a network, it's immune to SIM-swapping attacks, a common tactic hackers use to intercept SMS codes. This should be your primary method.
• SMS / Text Message: The most common and convenient method, but also the most vulnerable. When you try to log in, Instagram texts a code to your registered phone number. While it's far better than having no 2FA at all, it's susceptible to those SIM-swapping hacks where a bad actor convinces your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to their device. Use this as a backup method, but not your primary one.
• Backup Codes: These are your digital get-out-of-jail-free cards. When you set up 2FA, Instagram provides you with a set of 8 single-use codes. If you ever lose your phone, break your device, or can't receive codes via your app or SMS, these are your lifeline for getting back into your account.

Scenario 1: Moving 2FA to a New Phone (You Still Have Your Old Device)

This is the most common and easiest situation. You've just upgraded your phone and want to move your authenticator app access from the old device to the new one. As long as you have your old phone with Instagram and your authenticator app active, this process will only take a minute or two.

Follow these steps carefully:

Step-by-Step Guide to Migrating Your Authenticator

1. Open Instagram on Your OLD Phone: This is important. You need to initiate the change from the device that is already authorized.
2. Navigate to the Security Center: Tap on your profile icon in the bottom-right corner. Then, tap the three-line menu (the "hamburger" icon) in the top-right. Go to Settings and privacy > Accounts Center > Password and security.
3. Select Two-Factor Authentication: In the 'Password and security' menu, tap on Two-factor authentication and then select the Instagram account you wish to update.
4. Access Your Authenticator App Settings: Under the "Your methods" section, you'll see "Authentication app" listed as active. Tap on it.
5. Get Your Transfer Key or QR Code: Instagram will show your already-linked device. Look for an option that says Set Up a Different Device. Tapping this will generate a new QR code and a manual key.
6. Set Up Your NEW Phone: Now, grab your new device. Open your preferred authenticator app (Google Authenticator, Authy, etc.). Find the option to add a new account (usually a '+' button).
7. Scan the Code: Use your new phone's camera to scan the QR code displayed on your old phone's Instagram app. Instantly, a new entry for your Instagram account will appear in your authenticator app on the new device, generating 6-digit codes.
8. Confirm the New Device: Go back to your old phone's Instagram app and tap "Next." It will ask you to enter the 6-digit code now showing on your new phone's authenticator app. Enter it to confirm that the new device is working correctly.
9. Clean Up Your Old Device: That's it! Your new phone is now your official 2FA device. You can safely remove the old Instagram entry from the authenticator app on your old phone to avoid confusion. You're ready to factory reset or decommission the old device.

This seamless transfer ensures you never lose access to your account during an upgrade.

Scenario 2: How to Change Your Primary 2FA Method

Let's say you've been using SMS for a while but want to upgrade your security to a more robust authenticator app. Instagram makes it easy to add new methods and change your primary preference. Keeping more than one method active is a smart move, giving you alternate ways to log in if one fails.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a New 2FA Method

1. Go to Your Security Settings: Just like before, head to Settings and privacy > Accounts Center > Password and security > Two-factor authentication.
2. Choose your Instagram account. You'll see which methods are currently active (e.g., Text message).
3. Add the Authentication App: Tap on Authentication app to begin setting one up. Instagram will provide a QR code and a manual setup key.
4. Link Your Authenticator App: Open your authenticator app of choice on your phone, tap the '+' to add a new account, and scan the QR code from Instagram. If you're doing this all on the same device, you can copy the setup key from Instagram and paste it manually into your authenticator app.
5. Confirm the Link: Your authenticator app will now be generating codes for Instagram. Return to the Instagram app and enter the current 6-digit code to prove that it's working.
6. Manage Your Methods: The new method is now active! If you want, you can disable the old SMS method by tapping on "Text Message" and toggling it off. However, the best practice is to leave both active. The authenticator app will become the default, but if you're ever in a bind, you'll have the option to receive an SMS code by tapping "Try Another Way" during login.

Scenario 3: The Nightmare Scenario - You've Lost Your Phone

Losing your phone is stressful enough without also being locked out of your social media accounts. If you don't have access to your old phone or your authenticator app is gone, getting back into your Instagram account can be tricky. But you have options.

Option 1: The First Line of Defense is Your Backup Codes

Remember those weird-looking 8-digit codes Instagram showed you when you first set up 2FA? This is precisely when they become your saving grace. Hopefully, you saved them somewhere safe and accessible - like in a password manager, a secure cloud folder, or even a physical printout.

Here's how to use one:

1. Start the Login Process: On the Instagram login screen, enter your username and password.
2. Stop at the 2FA Prompt: You'll be asked for your 6-digit authentication code, which you don't have. Look for a link that says Try Another Way. Tap it.
3. Select "Enter Backup Code": From the list of options, choose the one for backup codes. Enter one of the 8-digit codes from your saved list. Each code only works once.
4. You're In! Now Secure Your Account: If the code is correct, you'll gain access. Your very first action should be to go straight to your security settings (Settings and privacy > Accounts Center > Password and security > Two-factor authentication).
5. Refresh Everything: Tap on "Backup codes" and select Get new codes. This will deactivate the old set and generate a new one. Save these new ones immediately! Then, disable the old authenticator app link and set up 2FA on your new device from scratch.

Option 2: Account Recovery if You Don't Have Backup Codes

If you never saved your backup codes, the situation is tougher but not impossible. Instagram has an identity verification process, although success often depends on what kind of account you run.

1. Initiate the Recovery Process: On the 2FA screen, tap Try Another Way, and then select Get Support (or similar wording).
2. Follow the Prompts: Instagram will guide you through a recovery process. This usually involves confirming the email address or phone number on file so they can contact you.
3. Complete the Video Selfie Verification: For personal accounts where your face is visible in multiple photos, Instagram may ask you to record a short video selfie. The system will ask you to turn your head in various directions so it can create a 3D scan to compare against your profile pictures. This is an automated system designed to prove you are the person in the photos.
4. Wait for a Response: After submitting your video selfie and information, you'll have to wait for Instagram's team to review your request. This can take several business days. If they successfully verify your identity, they'll send you an email with instructions to regain access to your account.

Note: This method is very difficult for brand accounts, meme pages, or any profile that doesn't have clear photos of the account owner. This is precisely why saving backup codes is not just a suggestion - it's essential.

Final Thoughts

Managing your Instagram's two-factor authentication is an essential part of responsible social media management. Whether you're moving to a new phone, boosting your security with an authenticator app, or recovering from a lost device, the tools are there - you just need to know how to use them. Always prioritize using an authenticator app and, most importantly, save your backup codes somewhere safe before you ever need them.

Once you've locked down your account security, you can get back to what matters: growing your brand and connecting with your audience. As we've seen running countless social calendars, consistency is everything. Handling the daily chaos of planning, scheduling, and engaging across Instagram, TikTok, Reels, and more can feel like a full-time job in itself. That's why we built Postbase, we've designed a powerful, modern platform that simplifies our own workflow with visual calendars and rock-solid scheduling so we can focus on creative strategy, not manual posting.