What is two-factor authentication, and how do I enable or disable it?

Two-factor authentication provides an additional layer of security when logging in to your DeviantArt account to help keep your account from being compromised. When enabled, you'll be asked to verify your identity each time you log in from an unrecognized device or perform sensitive actions like withdrawing earnings.

If you signed up using a social login option (Google, Apple, or Facebook), please note that two-factor authentication on your DeviantArt account is not available through DeviantArt itself. Instead, you are encouraged to enable it on the social media platform you used to create your DeviantArt account.

Two-factor authentication is a requirement to withdraw earnings, so deviants who have sold art 
on DeviantArt must enable two-factor authentication to withdraw their earnings.

How to enable two-factor authentication:

  • Install the Google Authenticator app (or any other authenticator app) on your Android or iOS mobile device.
  • On DeviantArt, visit the Security and privacy section of Account Settings (which can be accessed at any time from the avatar drop down menu).
  • Enter your password to start the two-factor authentication setup process.
  • Add DeviantArt to your Authenticator app. 
    • In your Authenticator app, find the option to either scan a QR code or enter a setup key, then (depending on the option you choose) either scan the QR code or enter the 16-digit text code that appears beneath it.
  • The Authenticator app will give you a 6-digit number after you scan or enter the code. Enter this 6-digit number into the Authenticator Code box, then click Verify and Save. (Please note that the 6-digit number will cycle frequently, so you will need to check the app each time you try to log in.)

Save Your Recovery Codes

Once you’ve successfully enabled two-factor authentication, you will be presented with a list of recovery codes. Save these codes and do not share them with anyone, as you will need them if you get locked out of your account in the future.

If you misplace your set of recovery codes after you set up two-factor authentication, you can generate new recovery codes by visiting the Authentication page in Account Settings, entering your password, and clicking “Regenerate recovery codes.” However, please note that when you generate new recovery codes, the old recovery codes will no longer work.

Each recovery code can only be used once to regain access to your account.

How to disable two-factor authentication:

Once enabled, two-factor authentication can be disabled at any time from the Security and privacy page of Account Settings. Simply enter your password and click “Disable,” and two-factor authentication will be disabled.
If you encounter issues or have concerns regarding two-factor authentication, please contact DeviantArt Customer Support.