Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your SoundCloud account by requiring a code from an authenticator app when signing in.
We recommend using Google Authenticator(on iOS or Android), LastPass, or Authy.
Before you begin:
Make sure your email address is confirmed. This allows you to recover your account if needed. You can check this in your Settings on the website.
Download an authenticator app of your choice.
Jump To:
If you can't access your 2FA codes
If you lost your phone and backup codes
If your 2FA code's aren't working
To enable 2FA:
Go to SoundCloud on your browser and open your Settings. (2FA can only be managed on the website, but applies to both web and mobile.)
Open the Two-Factor Authentication tab.
Scan the QR code using your authenticator app, then enter the 6-digit code to confirm.
If you can’t scan the QR code, enter the setup key manually in your app and use the generated code.
Download and store your backup codes in a secure location. These can be used if you lose access to your device.
Once completed, 2FA will be active on your account.
Note: 2FA is not available via SMS.
If you can’t access your 2FA codes
Use a backup code
What is backup code?
A backup code for an authenticator is a one-time use code you can use to log into your account if you can’t access your authenticator app (like when you lose your phone).
When you set up 2FA, you receive backup codes that can be used instead of your authenticator app. We strongly suggest copying your 2FA backup codes when you set up 2FA.
To use one:
Enter your username and password when logging in.
When prompted for a code, choose the option to use a backup code.
Enter one of your saved backup codes.
Please note: each backup code can only be used once.
Where can I find my backup codes?
Backup codes can only be downloaded once during setup, so make sure they are stored securely. When you set up two-factor authentication (2FA), you were given a set of backup (recovery) codes. These are usually saved as a text (.txt) file on your device.
To find them, look for a file you downloaded or saved during setup with this name: soundcloud-backup-codes.txt
Tips to help you find your file
- Check the Downloads folder on your computer or your mobile device for
soundcloud-backup-codes.txt - Think about which device you used to set up 2FA (phone, laptop, or desktop) and check there
Check Apple Keychain (iPhone)
If you're using an iPhone, your 2FA code may be saved in your device:
Open Settings → Passwords
Search for “soundcloud.com”
Use the verification code if one appears
Restore from your authenticator app
Many authenticator apps support backups. If enabled, you can restore your codes on a new device.
The steps vary depending on the app, so refer to your app’s documentation for instructions.
Note: TOTP backup setup varies by app. Refer to the documentation for popular TOTP apps for guidance.
Use your old phone
If you still have access to your old device:
Open your authenticator app
Find your SoundCloud code and use it to log in
You can then set up your new device using your app’s backup or transfer feature
Note: The Process to transfer codes from the old phone is different for different apps:
If you lost your phone and backup codes
If you no longer have access to your authenticator app, backup codes, or old device:
Reinstall your authenticator app and attempt to restore from a backup.
If that doesn’t work, contact SoundCloud Support through the support bot.
You’ll need to verify your identity before access can be restored. Make sure you contact support using the email address linked to your account.
If your 2FA codes aren’t working
2FA codes are time-based and require your device’s clock to be accurate.
If your codes aren’t working:
Check that your phone’s time is set to automatic.
If it’s already automatic, turn it off and back on to resync.
Incorrect time settings or time zone changes are the most common cause of invalid codes.