Why You Should Save Backup Codes for Every Important Account
Backup codes are the spare key to your account. When your phone is lost, stolen or your SMS codes stop arriving, they're often the only easy way back in.
Where to find them
Most services offer backup or recovery codes in their security or two-factor settings. Google, Microsoft, Instagram, Discord, X and many others have them.
How to store them
- In a password manager, attached to the account.
- Printed and kept somewhere safe at home.
- Not as a screenshot on the same phone you use for codes.
Which accounts need them most
- Your main email.
- Your password manager.
- Banking and payment apps.
- Accounts you use for work or business.
Using them
Each code works once. After using one, cross it off or generate a new set.
Regenerate when needed
If you think someone saw your codes, create a new set. The old ones stop working.
Part of a recovery plan
Backup codes, a recovery email and a recovery phone you'll keep long term together make sure you never get locked out.
Keep recovery on numbers you own. For one-off sign ups elsewhere, telly.cat numbers keep your personal number private.
FAQ
What are backup codes?
One-time codes a service gives you when you set up two-factor login, used to sign in if you can't get your normal code.
Where should I store backup codes?
In a password manager or printed and kept somewhere safe at home, not in a screenshot on the same phone.