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 on PlayStation®5 consoles and PlayStation®4 consoles.

How to set up 2SV online and record backup codes

When you set up 2SV, you can receive verification codes either via SMS, or by using an authenticator app.  

  1. Sign in to Account Management and select Security.
  2. Next to 2-step Verification Status, select Edit.
  3. Select a verification method: Authenticator App or Text Message.
  4. Enter your mobile number or scan the QR code with the authenticator app.
    If the QR code fails, copy and paste the alphanumeric code on your app.
  5. Enter the verification code you receive via SMS or app and select Activate.
  6. Record your Backup Codes. 

  1. Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Security > 2-Step Verification. 

  2. Select a verification method: Authenticator App or Text Message.

  3. Enter your mobile number or scan the QR code with the authenticator app.
    If the QR code fails, enter the alphanumeric code on your app.

  4. Enter the verification code you receive via SMS or app and select Activate.

  5. Record your Backup Codes.

  1. Go to Settings > Account Management > Account Information > Security > 2-Step Verification.

  2. Select a verification method: Authenticator App or Text Message.

  3. Enter your mobile number or scan the QR code with the authenticator app.
    If the QR code fails, enter the alphanumeric code on your app.

  4. Enter the verification code you receive via SMS or app and select Activate.

  5. Record your Backup Codes.

You can also switch to passkey authentication for a quick and secure sign-in experience.

Set up passkey
PS3 console and PS Vita Device Setup Password

What verification method can I use?

  • Authenticator apps are convenient to securely identify yourself.
  • Download an authenticator app (such as Authy, Google Authenticator, or Microsoft Authenticator) to your phone or tablet for easy access.
  • Once set up, you can receive and enter a verification code whenever 2SV is required.
  • Enter a mobile number or select an existing one during setup. 
  • Once set up, you can receive a verification code via SMS and enter it whenever 2SV is required.

You can change your 2SV verification method at any time. Deactivate your current 2SV verification and reactivate 2-step verification to select your desired verification method.

How to use 2SV on PSN

  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 you sign in for the first time after switching on 2SV.

  • When you sign in after manually signing out of PlayStation Network.

  • When you reset your account password.

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

How to check your 2SV backup codes

If you lose access to your 2SV mobile number, you can access your account if you’ve kept a record of your backup codes.

  1. Sign in to Account Management and select Security.

  2. Select Backup Codes. Make a note of them and make sure to store them in a safe place for future use.

  • If you can’t sign in to your account, you can’t check your backup codes online.
  • Without a record of these codes, you need to verify your identity to recover your account.
Lost backup codes?

How to turn off your 2SV online

  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 Disabled.

  1. Go to Settings > Account Management > Account Information > Security.

  2. Select 2-Step Verification and set the Status as Inactive.

If you don’t have access to your account and can’t deactivate 2SV, check the guide below to recover your account.

Help with 2SV issues

Having issues with 2SV?

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

Help with 2SV issues

Need help? 

Contact our support specialists

Contact PlayStation Support