Two-factor authentication overview

Last updated: 7 days ago

Important to know

We are aware of an issue impacting some iOS users who have enabled two-factor authentication. While we work to fix the issue, there are steps you can take to access your LinkedIn content and settings after completing your two-factor authentication and clicking, Yes, it’s me. On your iOS device, go to your browser to access LinkedIn.com. Alternatively, you can access your content and settings from a browser on desktop computer

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a type of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) that requires a person to use more than one form of authentication to access an account, usually by "knowing something" such as a password and by "having something" such as a mobile device. Two-factor authentication can greatly reduce unauthorized access to most accounts by identifying new or unknown computers or devices.

LinkedIn encourages all members to turn on two-factor authentication. Two methods of verification are available:

  1. Text (SMS) authentication.
  2. Authenticator app verification (like Microsoft Authenticator). LinkedIn recommends the authenticator app as the preferred two-factor authentication method.  

How does two-factor authentication work?

When LinkedIn does not recognize the device that you're attempting to sign in from, you'll be asked to enter your account password as the first layer of authentication and a numerical code (also called a PIN code) as the second layer of authentication. The code will be sent to your phone via SMS or authenticator app, depending on the two-factor authentication method you selected. If you are logged into LinkedIn on a mobile device and have push notifications enabled, you will receive a push notification on your mobile device with a sign-in security prompt instead of one of the two-factor authentication methods. Learn more about the sign-in security prompt here.

Important: LinkedIn requires all Recruiter, Campaign Manager, and Sales Navigator users to turn on two-factor authentication through their LinkedIn.com accounts in order to access their Recruiter, Campaign Manager, and Sales Navigator accounts.

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