Secure your Google Ads account: 2-Step Verification

Multi-factor authentication or two-step verification is designed to prevent account hijacking and unauthorised access. 2-Step Verification can help keep bad actors out, even if your password has been compromised. When you set up 2-Step Verification, you’ll sign into your account using a password and a second verification step. The second verification step can involve one of the following:

Call
Google Authenticator App from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store
Google prompt on a compatible mobile device
Security key
Text message (SMS)

The two-step verification can help ensure that potential attackers can't access your account even if they have your password.

If you don't want to enter a two-step verification code or use your security key every time you sign in, you can mark your computer or mobile device as trusted and not be asked again. Note that changes to your recovery information, such as your phone number, may take up to seven days to fully update across all Google services, including Google Ads. During this time, you may experience additional verification prompts. For urgent changes, consider asking another account administrator for assistance.

Enable two-step verification

Use the following steps to enable two-step verification:

Go to Access and security within the Admin menu .
In the 'Access and security' page, select the Security tab.
Under the 'Verification during sign-in' section, click the two-step verification drop down.
Click Turn on.

Tips and tools for two-step verification

Use the Google Authenticator app

The Google Authenticator app provides a more secure way to verify your account than SMS. Download the Google Authenticator app from the Google Play Store and Apple app store, and set it up with your Google Account. This app will automatically lead you to the two-step verification screen. Learn more about verifying with the Google Authenticator app. If you switch phones, remember to transfer your Google Authenticator codes to your new device to maintain access to your Google Ads account. Failing to do so can result in account lockout.

Choose a strong and unique password

A strong password contains a combination of numbers, characters and case-sensitive letters, so that it can't be guessed easily. Don't use the same password for different websites.

Keep your account recovery options updated

Ensure that your account recovery options, including your phone number and recovery email, are current and accessible. Outdated or inaccessible recovery information can significantly hinder your ability to regain access to your Google Ads account if you encounter issues with other verification methods, such as Google Authenticator or security keys. Regularly review and update your recovery information to prevent account lockout.

Scan your computer for malware

Ensure that your computer's antivirus protection is updated and that you periodically run a full system scan. Someone can steal your personal information by spreading malware onto your system, so run full system scans regularly to ensure that your system is free of malware. Learn more about protecting yourself from malware.

Disable two-step verification (not recommended)

Google strongly encourages all advertisers to use two-step verification to log in to their accounts. Using 2-Step Verification protects your account and sensitive data from attackers, even if they have your password. If you’d prefer not to protect your account, follow the instructions below.

How to disable the two-step verification requirement in Google Ads

Note: You must have administrative access to make this change.

In your Google Ads account, click the Admin icon .
Click Access and security.
In the 'Access and security' page, select the Security tab.
Under the 'Verification during sign-in' section, click the two-step verification drop down.
Click Turn off.
Click Turn off in the pop-up window that opens.

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Secure your Google Ads account: 2-Step Verification

Enable two-step verification

Tips and tools for two-step verification

Use the Google Authenticator app

Choose a strong and unique password

Keep your account recovery options updated

Scan your computer for malware

Disable two-step verification (not recommended)

How to disable the two-step verification requirement in Google Ads

Related links

Security hub

Your security options

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