Logging into LinkedIn without a password may seem impossible, but there are actually a few different options available. LinkedIn offers password-less login through SMS, third party apps, and security keys to make accessing your account more convenient. Understanding these passwordless login methods can help you securely log into LinkedIn when you’ve forgotten your password or want an easier login experience.
Logging In via SMS
One of the easiest ways to log into your LinkedIn account without a password is through SMS text message verification. Here’s how it works:
- Go to LinkedIn.com and click the “Forgot password?” link on the login page.
- Enter your LinkedIn email address and click “Reset password.”
- Choose to reset your password via text message.
- Enter the 6-digit verification code sent to your phone via text.
- You will then be logged into your LinkedIn account without needing to enter your password.
This passwordless login method sends a temporary 6-digit code to your phone that is valid for 10 minutes. As long as you have access to your phone, you can securely log into your LinkedIn account without your password.
The SMS login option is available globally for LinkedIn members with a verified phone number added to their account. As long as you have cell service or a Wi-Fi connection, you can access LinkedIn just by entering the texted code.
Benefits of Logging in with SMS
Some of the benefits of using LinkedIn’s SMS login include:
- No need to remember or reset your password.
- Quick and easy login process.
- Added security since the code is only valid temporarily.
- Access your account from any device that can receive text messages.
- Avoid getting locked out if you enter your password incorrectly.
Logging in through SMS can be a convenient way to access your LinkedIn account without needing to remember or enter your password. It provides a simple, secure login solution when you need to get into your account quickly.
Logging In with Third Party Apps
In addition to SMS login, LinkedIn also allows passwordless login through third party applications. Here are some of the most popular apps that support LinkedIn login:
Microsoft Authenticator App
Microsoft Authenticator is a free app for iOS and Android mobile devices that generates verification codes for passwordless logins. To use it for your LinkedIn account:
- Download and open the Microsoft Authenticator app.
- Click “Add account” and select “LinkedIn.”
- Log into your LinkedIn account when prompted.
- The app will sync with your account.
- Future logins will ask you to approve notifications sent to the app.
This allows you to login without a password by approving the request in the Authenticator app. The notification login method adds an extra layer of security.
LastPass Authenticator
Similar to Microsoft Authenticator, LastPass Authenticator can also be used for passwordless LinkedIn login after syncing your account through the app. LastPass Authenticator is available for iOS and Android.
Authy
Authy is another popular authentication app that works for LinkedIn’s passwordless login feature. It’s available for both mobile and desktop. Authy allows you to sync your LinkedIn account then receive instant verification codes for login.
Symantec VIP Access
Symantec VIP Access generates unique six to eight digit codes that verify your identity for enhanced security. You can use the VIP Access app on iOS and Android to easily log into your LinkedIn account.
Logging In with a Security Key
Security keys provide one of the most secure ways to log into your LinkedIn account without a password. Supported security keys include:
- YubiKey
- Titan Security Key
- Feitian MultiPass FIDO Security Key
- Google Titan Security Key
To use a security key for passwordless LinkedIn login:
- Purchase and setup a compatible security key device.
- Register your security key in LinkedIn under account settings.
- Insert or connect your registered security key when logging into LinkedIn.
- This will authenticate your account without needing to enter your password.
Logging in using the security key confirms your identity through public key cryptography and securely logs you into LinkedIn.
Troubleshooting Passwordless Login
While LinkedIn’s passwordless login options provide added convenience, you may encounter occasional issues getting logged in. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
SMS Login Not Working
If SMS login fails, try the following steps:
- Make sure your phone has cell service or Wi-Fi connection.
- Verify your phone number is correctly added in your LinkedIn account settings.
- Check for text message blocking settings on your phone.
- Contact your mobile carrier if you are not receiving text messages.
- Wait 10 minutes and try requesting the SMS code again.
Third Party App Not Working
If your authentication app is not allowing LinkedIn login, try these tips:
- Make sure notifications are enabled for the app.
- Check that the app is updated to the latest version.
- Re-sync your LinkedIn account in the app’s settings.
- Force quit and restart the authenticator app.
- Delete and reinstall the app before adding your LinkedIn account again.
Security Key Not Registering
For issues registering or using your security key:
- Verify you have purchased a supported security key model.
- Check the security key is properly setup before registering in LinkedIn.
- Make sure you are securely connecting the security key when logging in.
- Try registering the security key again in your LinkedIn account.
- Contact the device manufacturer if your security key is defective.
Enabling Two-Step Verification
In addition to passwordless login, enabling LinkedIn’s two-step verification adds an extra layer of security to your account. Here’s how it works:
- Go to your LinkedIn Account Settings.
- Select the Security tab.
- Click on “Two-Step Verification.”
- Toggle on the feature.
- Choose a verification method such as SMS or app.
With two-step verification enabled, logging into LinkedIn requires your password plus an additional code from your phone or authentication app. This prevents unauthorized access even if your password is compromised.
Two-step verification combined with passwordless login gives you flexible secure options for accessing LinkedIn from anywhere.
Best Practices for LinkedIn Account Security
To keep your LinkedIn account safe, follow these best practices:
- Create a unique complex password using a password manager.
- Enable SMS or app-based two-step verification.
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks to access LinkedIn.
- Don’t save your LinkedIn password in browsers.
- Monitor your account activity for any unauthorized changes.
- Keep your LinkedIn app and connected apps updated.
- Use private browsing windows when accessing LinkedIn.
Combining password and passwordless login options with other security features gives you layers of protection for your valuable LinkedIn profile and connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is logging into LinkedIn without a password safe?
Yes, LinkedIn’s passwordless login options using SMS, authentication apps, and security keys are all safe and secure ways to access your account. The temporary codes protect your account just like a password without the risk of forgetting or exposing a permanent password.
What if I lose my phone number or device?
If you lose access to your phone number or registered device, you can still reset your LinkedIn password through account recovery options on LinkedIn.com. Add a backup mobile number or trusted contacts for account recovery when enabling passwordless login.
Can someone else login with my SMS code?
It’s unlikely someone else can login with your SMS code unless they have access to your unlocked phone. The 6-digit codes are only valid for 10 minutes and will only be sent to your registered device. Don’t share SMS codes with others.
Do I need an internet connection to use passwordless login?
You’ll need an internet connection on the device receiving your login verification through SMS, authentication apps, or your security key. For SMS, a cell signal or Wi-Fi is required to receive the message.
Is one passwordless login method more secure than others?
Security keys provide the most secure form of passwordless login. Authentication apps would be the next most secure option, followed by SMS verification. However, all three methods are significantly more secure than just relying on a password alone.
Conclusion
Logging into LinkedIn without your password is simple and secure with the right passwordless login method. SMS verification, third party authenticator apps, and physical security keys give you flexibility to access LinkedIn from anywhere, on any device. Combined with two-step verification and other security best practices, passwordless logins help keep your valuable LinkedIn profile secure.