Logging into LinkedIn without using the authenticator app can be useful if you’ve lost access to the app or prefer not to use it. Here are some quick solutions to logging into LinkedIn when you don’t have the authenticator app:
Use SMS or Phone Call Verification
LinkedIn allows you to verify your login using an SMS text message or automated phone call. Here’s how to set this up:
- Go to the LinkedIn login page and enter your username and password.
- On the next page, click the “Text me a code” or “Call me” link under “Don’t have your phone?”
- Enter your phone number and select whether you want a text or call.
- LinkedIn will send a 6-digit verification code via text or automated call.
- Enter the 6-digit code on the LinkedIn page and click Verify.
- You will then be logged into your LinkedIn account without needing the app.
This method allows you to authenticate your login attempt without the authenticator app installed on your phone. It’s handy if you’ve lost your phone or don’t have the app set up.
Use Backup Codes
When you first set up two-factor authentication on LinkedIn, the site provides you with a list of one-time use backup codes. You can use these 8-digit backup codes instead of the authenticator app to log in. Here’s how:
- On the LinkedIn login page, enter your username and password.
- On the next page, click the “Enter backup code” link.
- Enter one of your unused backup codes and click Verify.
- You will then be logged into your LinkedIn account.
The downside to using backup codes is that they are one-time use, so your supply will eventually run out. But they can be handy in a pinch if you don’t have access to your authenticator app.
Remove Two-Factor Authentication
If you no longer have access to your authenticator app or backup codes, you can remove two-factor authentication from your LinkedIn account by:
- Going through LinkedIn’s account recovery process. This involves verifying your identity.
- Once your identity has been confirmed, LinkedIn will allow you to remove two-factor authentication.
- You will then be able to login with just your username and password.
The downside to removing two-factor authentication is that it makes your account less secure. But if you’ve exhausted all other options, it may be necessary to gain access to your account.
Reset Your Password
If you’ve lost access to both your two-factor verification methods and your LinkedIn password, you can reset your password to gain access to your account again. Here’s the process:
- Go to the LinkedIn password reset page and enter your username or email.
- LinkedIn will email you a password reset link.
- Click the reset link and follow the instructions to create a new password.
- Log into LinkedIn with your new password.
Without two-factor authentication enabled, resetting your password allows you to log in with just a username and password. But this also leaves your account vulnerable, so re-enabling two-factor authentication is recommended.
Contact LinkedIn Customer Service
If you cannot gain access to your account through any of the above methods, you can contact LinkedIn customer service for assistance. Here are some tips for reaching out:
- Go to the LinkedIn Help Center and search for account recovery assistance.
- Look for the options to contact customer support via web form or phone.
- Clearly explain that you cannot access your two-factor authentication methods.
- Provide as many identifying details about yourself and your account as possible.
- LinkedIn agents can further assist with secure account recovery.
Contacting customer service takes more time but provides you with direct support to regain access to your account. Agents may ask for scans of government IDs, selfies, and other information to verify identity.
Enable Backup Verification Methods
To avoid getting locked out of LinkedIn if you lose your phone or authenticator app, it’s smart to set up backup verification methods ahead of time:
- Save backup codes – When you first set up two-factor authentication, LinkedIn provides 10 backup codes. Save these in a secure place in case you need them.
- Set up multiple verification methods – LinkedIn allows SMS, phone calls, hardware keys, and the authenticator app. Having multiples set up gives you alternatives.
- Write down account recovery information – Store details like your username, password hints, and trusted contacts somewhere safe in case you need to recover your account.
Taking these precautions reduces the risk of getting locked out if your primary verification method is unavailable. The key is having multiple ways to authenticate if needed.
Be Careful When Changing Phones
One common way people get locked out of two-factor authenticated accounts is when upgrading to a new phone. If you use your phone for SMS or authenticator apps, be sure to migrate properly when changing devices:
- Move your SIM card from old phone to new phone to keep the same phone number.
- Before resetting old phone, move authenticator app data to new phone.
- Remove old phone number as a verification method once new phone is set up.
- Test logging into LinkedIn on new phone before wiping old phone.
Taking these steps ensures your verification methods transition smoothly to your new device and reduces login disruption.
Conclusion
Losing access to your two-factor authentication methods can be stressful, but there are ways to get back into your LinkedIn account without the authenticator app. SMS and phone call verification, backup codes, password resets, and contacting customer service can help you regain access to your account. Enabling backup verification methods and properly migrating when changing phones can also prevent you from getting locked out. With the right preparation, you can log into LinkedIn even without your authenticator app handy.
Method | Pros | Cons |
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SMS/Phone verification |
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Backup codes |
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Remove 2FA |
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Reset password |
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Contact customer support |
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Enable Backups Ahead of Time
Here are some best practices for setting up backup verification methods before you need them:
Method | How to Enable |
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Backup codes |
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SMS/phone calls |
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Hardware keys |
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Recovery info |
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Tips for Changing Phones
Follow these tips to ensure a smooth transition when migrating to a new mobile device:
- Move your SIM card from old phone to new phone if keeping same number
- Install authenticator apps on new phone and sync to transfer data
- Remove old phone number as a recovery method once new phone is set up
- Sign into LinkedIn and other accounts on new phone to test access
- Wipe old phone only after verifying accounts on new device
Key Takeaways
- Use SMS, phone, or backup codes to log into LinkedIn without authenticator app
- Removing 2FA or resetting password regains access but compromises security
- Contact LinkedIn customer service for help recovering access to your account
- Set up backup verification methods in advance to prevent getting locked out
- Carefully migrate authenticator apps and phone numbers when changing devices