Set up 2-step verification on PSN

How to set up 2-step verification on PlayStation Network

Learn how to set up and deactivate 2-step verification (2SV), and where to find 2SV backup codes.

How to set up 2-step verification and record backup codes

Select a device below to set up 2-step verification.

  1. Sign in to Account Management on a connected device and select Security.
  2. Next to 2-step Verification Status, select Edit > Activate > Continue.
  3. Select how you’d like to receive the verification code: Authenticator App or Text Message: 

Authenticator app
Make sure you have an authenticator app (such as Authy, Google Authenticator, or Microsoft Authenticator) downloaded and set up on your mobile device. Open the authenticator app and scan the QR code. If the QR code fails, copy and paste the alphanumeric code.
You receive a verification code in the authenticator app. 

Text message
Enter a mobile number or select an existing one.
You receive a verification code via SMS.

  1. Enter the verification code. 
  2. Record your Backup Codes.
  1. Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Security > 2-Step Verification. 
  2. Select Activate to switch on 2SV. 
  3. Select how you’d like to receive the verification code: Authenticator App or Text Message:

Authenticator app
Make sure you have an authenticator app (such as Authy, Google Authenticator, or Microsoft Authenticator) downloaded and set up on your mobile device. Open the authenticator app and scan the QR code. If the QR code fails, copy and paste the alphanumeric code.
You receive a verification code in the authenticator app. 

Text message
Enter a mobile number or select an existing one.
You receive a verification code via SMS.

  1. Enter the verification code. 
  2. Record your Backup Codes.
  1. Go to Settings > Account Management > Account Information > Security > 2-Step Verification. 
  2. Select Activate to switch on 2SV. 
  3. Select how you’d like to receive the verification code: Authenticator App or Text Message:

Authenticator app
Make sure you have an authenticator app (such as Authy, Google Authenticator, or Microsoft Authenticator) downloaded and set up on your mobile device. Open the authenticator app and scan the QR code. If the QR code fails, copy and paste the alphanumeric code.
You receive a verification code in the authenticator app. 

Text message
Enter a mobile number or select an existing one.
You receive a verification code via SMS.

  1. Enter the verification code. 
  2. Record your Backup Codes.
PS3 and PS Vita Device Setup Password

How to sign in with 2-step verification (2SV)

When you sign in to PlayStation™Network (PSN) on a PlayStation®5 console or PlayStation®4 console with 2SV active, you are asked to:

  1. Enter your account password and sign-in ID (email address).

  2. Enter the verification code from your authenticator app or the SMS that was sent to your registered mobile phone number*.

* The verification code is valid for 10 minutes after your sign-in attempt. If your code has expired, select Resend Code from the sign-in screen to receive a new code.

When to use 2-step verification

Accounts usually remain signed in, however, you are sent a verification code if:

  • you are signing in for the first time after switching on 2SV,

  • you manually sign out of PlayStation Network and want to sign back in,

  • you reset your account password,

  • you change your sign-in ID (email address) or online ID.

Having issues with 2-step verification?

If you are having trouble signing in with 2SV, please visit the guide below.

Help with 2SV issues

How to find your 2SV backup codes

If you lose access to your 2SV mobile number, a backup code will let you access your account. Without these codes, you will need to verify your identity to recover your account.

  1. Go to Account Management on a connected device and select Security.

  2. Select Backup Codes. Store the backup codes in a safe place.

How to turn off 2-step verification

Select a device below to turn off 2-step verification.

  1. Sign in to Account Management on a connected device and select Security.
  2. Next to 2-step Verification Status, select Edit > Deactivate.
  1. Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Security.
  2. Select 2-Step Verification and set the Status as Inactive.
  1. Go to Settings > Account Management > Account Information > Security. 
  2. Select 2-Step Verification > Status - Inactive.

How to switch to authenticator app verification

  1. Deactivate 2-step verification.

  2. Reactivate 2-step verification and select your desired verification method.

Need help? 

Contact our support specialists

Contact PlayStation Support