When we talk about the internet, especially social media handles, cyberattacks & account compromises are all too common. Passwords alone are no longer enough, which is why Instagram introduced Two-factor authentication to secure users’ accounts from unauthorized access and potential breaches. However, occasionally, some users have complained that Instagram is not sending the security code, either via SMS or e-mail, due to which they aren’t able to access their accounts. In today’s article, let’s discuss why this happens and how you can fix it.
Why is Instagram Not Sending SMS or E-mail Codes for Verification
Two-factor authentication is an additional layer of security that requires users to provide two forms of verification, usually a password and a unique one-time code sent to them, via SMS or email. Even though it is highly important as it keeps your personal information, photos, and messages safe, not being able to log in to your account due to it can be nothing short of an annoyance.
Now here is why you might not be receiving the code:
- Poor Internet Connection
- Bad Network Coverage
- Server Downtime Issues
- Bugs and Glitches
- Use of VPN
- Blocked IP Address
- Repeated Requests
Tip: Double-check that the phone number associated with your Instagram account is correct, currently in service, and has an active plan to receive SMS. Moreover, avoid sending code requests too frequently as it can block the delivery of codes for security reasons. Waiting for a few hours can be helpful.
Quick Answer
To fix this issue and receive security codes from Instagram, restart the app, then device. If it does not help, clear out the cache data:
1. Open Settings and tap on Apps.
2. Select Instagram from the list.
3. Tap on Storage and select Clear cache.
How to Fix Instagram Not Sending Security Code Error
Now that we know the reasons, let’s get straight into the solutions.
Note: Since smartphones don’t have the same Settings options, they vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Hence, ensure the correct settings before changing any on your device. The steps were performed on the Samsung S20 FE 5G, as shown in the illustrations below.
Method 1: Preliminary Fixes
We can start with some basic troubleshooting methods as usually, it’s a minor error that can be fixed in no time. Let’s go through them.
Method 1.1: Restart Instagram, then Device
If it’s a temporary glitch due to improper loading of app data and files, restarting the Instagram app can fix it. If that does not help, restart the device.
Method 1.2: Wait for Instagram Server Uptime
Often Instagram servers face outages due to heavy traffic congestion or simply be under maintenance mode. If that’s the case, you might see issues with the login process. Check the server status of Instagram in your region on Downdetector for Instagram. and in case of any discrepancy, wait until it gets fixed.
Method 1.3: Allow Permissions to Instagram App
Instagram requires certain permissions in order to send you a security code via SMS. If you haven’t granted the same, follow the steps below:
1. Open Settings and tap on Apps.
2. Tap on Instagram, followed by Permissions.
3. Tap on Phone and select Allow.
4. Similarly allow permissions for Contacts.
Method 1.4: Access Spam Folder
Sometimes SMS or emails with codes get received directly in the Spam folder and it’s quite common. We suggest you check that once, there are chances you might have received the security code.
Method 2: Troubleshoot Internet Connectivity
Online activities need the internet. Make sure that the device is connected to a strong and stable source of internet for Instagram to send the security code successfully. You can refer to our guide on How to Boost Internet Speed on Your Android Phone to improve the connectivity.
Method 3: Ensure Proper Settings
You need to check and change a few settings if required, in order to fix the error. Go through them as mentioned below:
Method 3.1: Turn off Do Not Disturb (If Applicable)
If there is an active Do Not Disturb (DND) on the device, this prevents Instagram from sending SMS codes. Moreover, even if you have received the code, there are chances of it being silently delivered or not visible at all until you disable DND.
1. Follow the path: Settings > Notifications > Do not disturb.
2. Slide the toggle next to Do not disturb to disable it.
Method 3.2: Disable Battery Saver and Data Saver (If Enabled)
Battery Saver or Power Saver feature restricts the device from consumption of resources from the background in order to prevent exhaustion of charge. However, this can impact the functionality of apps as well. Follow the steps to disable it:
1. Follow the path: Settings > Battery and device care > Battery.
2. Toggle off Power saving.
Also Read: 7 Best Battery Saver Apps for Android with Ratings
Similarly, Data Saver is meant to limit the consumption of internet data, especially from the background. Now this limitation might be the culprit for you not receiving messages from Instagram. Follow the steps to turn it off:
1. Follow the path: Settings > Connections > Data usage.
2. Tap on Data saver and then slide the toggle next to Turn on now to disable it.
Method 3.3: Allow Instagram to Work in Background
You also need to ensure that the Instagram app has been allowed to run background processes. If not, this would restrict the app’s functionality. Follow the steps to allow it:
1. Follow the path: Settings > Apps > Instagram.
2. Tap on Mobile data and toggle on Allow background data usage.
3. Now, tap on Battery and select Unrestricted from the options.
Method 4: Unblock SMS from Instagram
Instagram codes are often received from 5 to 8-digit phone numbers such as 32665, 32099, 503501, 59039200, or 57273200. There are chances you might have accidentally blocked any of these numbers earlier, which is why you aren’t able to get the 2FA security code. Follow the steps to check and unblock the number:
1. Open Messages, tap the three dots icon at the top-right, and select Settings from the context menu.
2. Tap on Block numbers and spam.
3. Tap on Block numbers.
4. Check any of the said numbers in the block list and tap on the – icon next to it.
Also Read: How to Hide Text Messages or SMS on Android
Method 5: Clear Instagram Cache Files
Cache files stored over time when become corrupt can lead to issues like crashes & glitches, and cause multiple issues within the app. There are high chances that because of this Instagram might not be sending security codes over SMS or email. So it is important to clear them out. Follow the steps:
1. Navigate the path: Settings > Apps > Instagram.
2. Tap on Storage, followed by Clear cache.
Attempt to log in once again and see if the issue is resolved.
Method 6: Disable or Enable VPN
In order to strengthen security and prevent users’ accounts from suspicious activities, Instagram has taken measures to detect and block VPN usage on the app. If you are using a banned VPN or just any VPN service, it is likely to result in account verification challenges. We suggest you disconnect the device and then try to log in.
1. Open Settings and tap on Connections.
2. Tap on More connection settings, followed by VPN.
3. Select the VPN to which the device is connected and tap on Disconnect.
Trying to log in or create an account with a banned IP address can lead to issues with the security code being delivered to you. VPN helps users dodge this. As it connects the device to a different server, it might help if the error is caused by a server outage in your region. Choose any of the best VPN services for Android and connect the device to it.
Method 7: Update App, then Device
Outdated apps are prone to bugs and glitches which often cause errors within the app, such as users have reported sometimes Instagram deletes their posts randomly. Even this could be why you are not receiving the verification code. Usually, bugs are fixed through updates.
1. Open the Google Play Store and search for Instagram.
2. Tap on Update.
Once updated, check if the discussed issue is resolved. If not, follow the steps below and update the device:
1. Open Settings, scroll down and tap on Software update.
2. Tap on Download and install.
3. Wait for a few seconds until the device checks for any available updates.
4. Download it and Restart the device to install the update successfully.
Method 8: Log In from Alternate Device
If the error is still not fixed, try changing the device or platform. Doing so greatly helps to pinpoint whether the problem is specific to your device or a broader issue. Read further as we’ll discuss it in detail.
Method 8.1: Attempt to Log In Via Facebook
Instagram allows users to link their Instagram accounts with Facebook and Facebook Messenger for cross-platform support. Moreover, it also allows users to share content on both platforms at the same time. You can log in to your IG account through Facebook if you have linked both earlier. Once you open Instagram, you should see the Continue as <Facebook username> button. Just tap on it to log in easily.
Method 8.2: Use Instagram Web
Now as we read, sometimes it’s nowhere but the Instagram app that encounters the issues and prevents from sending the SMS code. Fortunately, you can also use the Instagram web version to log in to your account.
Method 8.3: Log In on a Different Device
Lastly, install Instagram on a different device, smartphone, or PC and try to log in. If SMS codes work on the new device, it suggests the issue is likely linked to the original device.
Method 9: Contact Instagram Support
If you have tried all the previous methods but the error persists and you still are not able to log in to your account, you can contact Instagram support. If your account has been flagged, restricted, or encountered security-related issues, the support team can guide you through the verification and resolution process.
Method 10: Reinstall Instagram
The last resort is to reinstall the Instagram app on the device. Now it could potentially fix the issue by replacing old, damaged, and corrupt files with fresh ones, thereby allowing the app to function smoothly. Follow the steps:
1. In the app drawer, tap and hold the Instagram icon.
2. Select Uninstall from the pop-up.
3. Once uninstalled, reinstall Instagram from the Google Play Store.
Check if you are now able to receive the 2FA code via SMS or email.
That is it! We hope our guide helped you resolve the issue of Instagram not sending SMS codes. If you have any queries or suggestions, feel free to share them in the comments section. Stay connected to TechCult for solutions to such app-related errors.
