Avoid getting locked out

The best time to prepare for losing access is before it happens. A few minutes now saves a lot of trouble later.

Step 1: Keep your email or mobile current

Your email address or mobile number is where your codes go. If you change providers or get a new number, update your account while you can still get messages at the old one.

Step 2: Have two ways in

• A password and a passkey, or
• A passkey saved in a password manager that syncs to more than one device, plus a verified email or mobile.

We won't let you remove your last way in, but it's worth having a second before something goes wrong.

Step 3: Get ready for a new phone

• Check your passkeys sync to your new phone, or save new passkeys after you switch.
• If your number moves to the new phone, codes keep working. If your number changes, update it first.
• Stay signed in on one device, like a laptop, until the new phone works.

Step 4: Travelling

• Make sure your mobile can receive texts where you're going, or use email codes instead.
• Bring the device that holds your passkeys.

If you use your name, date of birth and secret words

Write your secret words down exactly and keep them somewhere private and safe, like with important papers. There's no reset for them.