Two-step verification (2FA) is a type of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) that requires a person to use more than one form of verification to access an account, usually by "knowing something" such as a password and by "having something" such as a mobile device. Two-step verification can greatly reduce unauthorized access to most accounts by identifying new or unknown computers or devices.
LinkedIn encourages all members to turn on two-step verification. Two methods of verification are available:
- Text (SMS) verification.
- Authenticator app verification (like Microsoft Authenticator). LinkedIn recommends the authenticator app as the preferred two-step verification method.
How does two-step verification 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 verification and a pin code as the second layer of verification. The pin code will be sent to your phone via SMS or authenticator app, depending on the two-step verification 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 2FA methods. Learn more about the sign-in security prompt here.
Important: LinkedIn requires all Recruiter and Talent Hub users to turn on two-step verification through their LinkedIn.com accounts in order to access their Recruiter and Talent Hub account.