Is Your Instagram Not Sending Code To Phone: Fix With These Steps

Instagram recommends having two-factor authentication on your account and providing an extra layer of security if your account was attempted to be hacked. Two-factor authentication offers a second verification method on top of a password. Although in theory, this authentication process should be simple enough and done via getting a text with a one time code in or using an external app to generate a code. Although this is not always asked for when signing into Instagram, if you are using a different device, a VPN or signing in from a different location, this may flag the code.

It is frustrating when you request a two-factor authentication from Instagram, and the code doesn’t arrive. Without the code, accessing your account is problematic. So why is Instagram not sending codes? And most importantly, how do you fix this? At Digi Helpdesk, we are happy to guide getting back into your account. Here are some of the ways to improve Instagram by not sending code to phone.

How do I get the 6 digit code for Instagram?

Set up two-factor authentication

To start getting the 6 digit code from Instagram, you need to turn on two-factor authentication settings. This is done via:

• You can access the help section via the 3 lines on the top right of your Instagram profile, tap on the settings and click security. Then you will see two-factor authentication.
• Following this, you will come to a screen that offers a choice of using an authentication app or text message.
• If you choose to get your code via SMS, you will get a text to the number on your account, featuring a 6 digit code.
• Instagram advises using an authentication app, and provides steps to do this also.

Why am I not getting the 6 digit code from Instagram?

Firstly, here are some of the reasons you may not be getting your 6 digit code from Instagram:

Instagram not sending code to phone due to mistyping

It is possible when you signed up to Instagram, that you mistyped your phone number. You can fix this issue via your email or gain access via Facebook.

Your phone number has been blocked.

Suppose you’ve had your account terminated on previous occasions for breaking the terms of service. It is possible that the texts will not reach you, as the number is blocked on the system. The only way around this is to set up a new number or find an alternative way to set up two-factor authentication.

IP Issues

If you’re trying to access your account without a VPN and still having issues, it could be your IP address that is blocked. There are a few things you can do to go around this.

In this case, attempt this again with a VPN on to see if the IP is the issue. If you don’t have a VPN, use another device in incognito mode.

Using a banned VPN service

If your account is accessed from a VPN, this may cause issues, especially if it’s a blocked VPN provider. This may stop you from accessing a code. If this is the case, temporarily disconnect the VPN and try again.

You’ve got a new account.

When you’ve set up a new account, it can take a little bit longer for texts to come through. This could be up to 24 hours. However, this is unlikely. But expect a potential delay due to queues.

The phone number has been used multiple times.

Unfortunately, Instagram only allows one account per mobile number, so if you are trying to use the same phone number again, this will not work.

Having issues with Snapchat? Check out our guide for an easy fix. 

How long does it take for Instagram to send a verification code?

It should only take a few seconds for the code to come through; however, it can take longer depending on how busy the server is.

If you’re still experiencing issues with getting the 6 digit code from Instagram, contact the Instagram help centre here. They may be able to assist further with any issues you can’t fix yourself.

Other security features on Instagram

When you’ve signed in to your account, you can view login activity on the same screen as the setup for two-step verification.

If you suspect your account has been hacked or used anywhere else, this provides information on where your account has been used.

If you encounter a login, you don’t recognise it, and it’s always worth changing your password for an extra layer of protection.