How to Solve Two-Step Verification Issues on Instagram

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Two-step verification is great for keeping your Instagram account secure, but it can get frustrating when you don’t get the codes or your recovery details are outdated. This can also happen when you’re trying to authenticate your Instagram account to set up your Instagram Agent.

What Is Instagram Two-Step Verification?

Two-Factor Authentication (also called two-step verification) is something you’ve probably seen on most major apps and websites. At first, it might feel like an extra step you don’t really need, but in reality, it’s one of the most important security features you can turn on.

Here’s why: even if someone somehow gets hold of your Instagram password, they still won’t be able to log in without that second verification step. That extra layer makes it much harder for anyone to hack into your account.

Think of it as a digital lock with two keys—you enter your regular password first, then confirm your identity with another code or method. With both steps in place, your account stays a lot safer, even if your password falls into the wrong hands. It might seem like a small hassle at first, but it’s a powerful way to protect your account from unauthorized access.

Enabling two-factor authentication on Instagram helps ensure that only you can log in—keeping your data, messages, and audience secure.

Why Are You Having Trouble with Your Two-Step Verification Code?

Running into issues with your Instagram two-step verification code can be frustrating, but don’t worry, it’s a common problem. There are a few typical reasons why the code might not show up or work as expected. Once you understand them, it’s usually easy to fix.

Problems with the Code Delivery

SMS delays caused by carrier issues or a poor signal.
Email codes ending up in your spam or junk folder.
Time-sync issues with third-party authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Authy.

Account or Device Issues

Trying to log in from a new device that Instagram doesn’t recognize.
Using an outdated phone number or email address.
Account settings are not updated after changing contact information.

Technical Issues

Temporary server issues on Instagram’s end.
Running an outdated version of the Instagram app.
Conflicts caused by cached data or app issues on your phone.

Security Triggers

Instagram may block code delivery if it detects suspicious login activity.
Logging in from a different country or an unfamiliar IP address.

Lost Phone

You may have lost your phone, or it was stolen, making code delivery impossible.

Fixing Common Instagram Two-Step Verification Problems

Stuck on the login screen because your two-step verification code won’t go through? You’re definitely not alone. Below are a few simple fixes to help you get back into your Instagram account—minus the stress.

If You’re Not Getting the Code (SMS or email)

Make sure your phone has a strong signal and can receive texts.
Check your spam or junk folder for the email codes.
Try tapping the “Resend Code” option on Instagram.
If you’ve recently changed your number or email, update your recovery info in your account settings.

If You’re Using an Authentication App

Make sure your phone’s date and time are set to automatic—authenticator apps won’t sync properly otherwise.
Open your app (like Google Authenticator or Authy) and verify that the code matches.
If needed, remove and re-add your Instagram account in the Authenticator app.

If it’s a Device or App Issue

Try logging in on a different device or browser.
Update your Instagram app to the latest version.
Clear the app cache (on iOS: reinstall the app; on Android: clear the app storage).

If it’s a Security Check

Use the same device and location you normally log in from.
Temporarily turn off your VPN—it might be interfering with login attempts.
If you’re traveling, try logging in from your home Wi-Fi or a trusted device.

Last-resort Options

Use your Backup Codes (Instagram gave you a set when you enabled two-step verification).
If none of the above works, contact Instagram Support directly through the app.

Getting Past Two-Step Verification Roadblocks

Don’t get discouraged if you run into issues with two-step verification—they’re usually simple to fix. Once resolved, you’ll be all set to start automating your Instagram interactions.

These hiccups often come down to common issues like outdated login info, SMS delays, emails landing in spam, or time-sync issues with authenticator apps. Once you clear this hurdle, you’ll be able to take full advantage of Jotform’s Instagram Agent to automate replies, manage conversations, and stay effortlessly connected with your audience.

Helpful Guides to Get You Started

Take a look at these handy guides to help you set up your Instagram Agent with ease: