Snapchat is a popular social media app that allows users to send photo and video messages that disappear after being viewed. Users can add filters and effects to their snaps before sending them. One of Snapchat’s key features is that it notifies users if someone takes a screenshot of their snap, adding an extra layer of privacy and ephemerality.
Given the private and temporary nature of Snapchat messages, security and privacy are important considerations for many Snapchat users. One common question is whether Snapchat sends a verification code when you log in, similar to other social media platforms and email providers.
The short answer is sometimes. Snapchat does have verification codes as part of their login process, but they are not sent every single time you log in. Here is a more detailed look at Snapchat’s login verification process.
When Does Snapchat Send a Verification Code?
Snapchat will send a verification code in the following circumstances when you are logging in:
Logging in from a New Device
If you are logging into your Snapchat account from a device you have not used before, Snapchat will send a 6-digit verification code to the phone number associated with your account. This is to confirm it is really you trying to log in and not someone else accessing your account without your knowledge.
You will be prompted to enter this 6-digit code on the new device before you can access your Snapchat account. This adds an extra layer of security when accessing your account from new devices.
If Unusual Login Activity is Detected
Snapchat monitors account activity to try and detect any suspicious or unusual behavior. If their systems detect something out of the ordinary, such as logins from unknown locations or devices, they may require verification even on a previously used device.
This is to protect your account in case someone else has gained access without your knowledge. You will be prompted to enter a verification code sent to your phone number before being able to log in.
When You Manually Request a Login Verification Code
Snapchat also allows you to manually request a verification code at login if you choose. To do this on iOS:
- Go to your profile page
- Tap the gear icon to access Settings
- Go to Login Verifications
- Toggle on the “Require Login Verification” option
On Android:
- Go to your profile page
- Tap the gear icon to access Settings
- Go to Account Actions
- Tap Login Verifications
- Toggle on “Require Login Verification”
Enabling this will require a verification code to be entered each time you log into your Snapchat account, even on previously used devices. This gives you extra security and can be disabled at any time if you do not want a code required on every login.
When Does Snapchat NOT Send a Verification Code?
Snapchat does NOT require a verification code in these situations:
Logging in on a Previously Used Device
If you are logging in from a device you have previously used to access your Snapchat account, and no suspicious activity has been detected, no verification code is required. Snapchat allows you to access your account normally.
You Have Login Verifications Turned Off
If you have login verifications disabled in your Snapchat account settings, you will not be sent a code unless logging in from a brand new device or suspicious activity is detected.
Having login verifications off reduces security but can be more convenient if you regularly access Snapchat from trusted devices. It’s recommended to turn login verifications on for enhanced security.
Logging Back in After a Short Time
Snapchat employs a “trusted device” system. This means if you are logged into your account on a device, then log out briefly before logging back in soon after from the same device, Snapchat trusts that device and will not require a new verification code.
However, if a significant amount of time passes before logging back in, it may require you to re-verify.
What Should You Do if You Don’t Get the Code?
Sometimes technical issues may prevent the verification code from being sent properly. If you request a login verification code but do not receive it, here are some steps to take:
Check Your Spam or Junk Folders
Sometimes the verification codes get filtered into spam by mistake. Check your spam or junk folders to see if it was delivered there rather than your inbox.
Double Check Your Phone Number
Make sure the phone number listed on your Snapchat account is correct and up to date. An outdated or incorrect number could prevent delivery of the code.
Contact Snapchat Support
Reach out to Snapchat’s customer support team and they can investigate why you did not get the code. They can also manually trigger a new verification code to be sent.
Use Backup Codes
If enabled, use Snapchat’s backup codes which can be used instead of a verification code to login. Backup codes are found in your Snapchat account settings.
Temporarily Disable Two-Factor Authentication
As a last resort, two-factor authentication can be temporarily disabled in order to log in without a code, but this also reduces security. Re-enable it after logging in.
Snapchat Verification Code FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Snapchat’s login verification codes:
How long do Snapchat verification codes last?
Snapchat login verification codes expire after 5 minutes. If unused, you will need to request a new code after the current one expires.
Can you get verification codes without having the app?
No, Snapchat can only send verification codes to the phone number associated with your account. You need to have the Snapchat app installed and be logged into your account to receive them.
What happens if you enter the code incorrectly?
You are allowed two tries to enter the 6-digit verification code correctly. On the third failed attempt, your account will be temporarily locked for around 30 minutes before you can try again.
Can someone else get your verification code?
The codes are sent directly to your phone number linked to your Snapchat account. As long as you keep your phone secure, nobody else should be able to access your verification codes without having your device.
How can you get a new verification code?
The easiest way is to log out of Snapchat and log back in, which will trigger a new code to be sent. You can also manually request a new code through your Snapchat settings.
Conclusion
Snapchat employs verification codes to protect user accounts and prevent unauthorized logins. Codes are required when logging in from new devices, if unusual activity is noticed, or when manually enabled by a user for extra security.
While verification codes are not mandatory for every single login, it is recommended to keep login verifications enabled, especially if accessing your Snapchat account from public or shared devices.
Overall verification codes add an important layer of security. Being aware of when Snapchat requires extra authentication helps ensure your account remains protected.
| Scenario | Is a Verification Code Sent? |
|---|---|
| Logging in on a previously used device | No |
| Logging in from a new device for the first time | Yes |
| Unusual login activity detected | Yes |
| Manual login verifications enabled | Yes |
| Logging back in after a short time | No |
| Login verifications disabled | No |
Related Articles:
- How to Enable Two-Factor Authentication on Snapchat
- Steps to Reset Your Snapchat Password
- Ways to Lock Your Snapchat Account
- Recovering a Hacked or Disabled Snapchat Account
- How to Block Someone on Snapchat