Reddit accounts are frequently targeted by automated credential-stuffing attacks — attackers take leaked username/password combinations from other sites and test them against Reddit. If you reuse passwords, your account is at risk. Two-factor authentication blocks these attacks entirely, requiring a second verification step that attackers cannot obtain from a data breach.
In This Guide
How to Enable 2FA on Reddit
- Go to reddit.com and sign in to your account.
- Click your username in the top right, then click User Settings.
- Click the Safety & Privacy tab.
- Under "Advanced Security", toggle on Two-Factor Authentication.
- Reddit will prompt you to re-enter your password for confirmation.
- A QR code appears. Open your authenticator app, add a new account, and scan the code. If you prefer, click Can't scan the QR code to get a plain text key.
- Enter the 6-digit code from your authenticator app to verify the setup.
- Reddit generates 10 backup codes. Download or copy these and store them securely. Each code can only be used once.
Reddit's 2FA Methods
Reddit supports authenticator apps (TOTP) as its primary 2FA method. Any standard TOTP app works — Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator, 1Password, Bitwarden, and others are all compatible. Reddit does not support SMS verification or hardware security keys at the account level.
Using Backup Codes on Reddit
If you cannot access your authenticator app at sign-in, click Use a backup code on the 2FA verification screen. Enter any unused backup code to complete the sign-in. Each code works exactly once and is then marked as used. Once logged in, you can regenerate a new set of backup codes from Safety & Privacy settings — doing so invalidates all previous codes.
Why Reddit Accounts Get Compromised
Reddit accounts are valuable to attackers for several reasons: karma-boosted accounts can post links without restrictions, making them useful for spam and manipulation campaigns. Accounts with high karma and established history can be sold on dark web markets. Older accounts may also be used to bypass subreddit age or karma requirements for posting. Enabling 2FA significantly reduces your exposure to all of these risks.
Protecting Moderator and Content Creator Accounts
If you moderate a subreddit or run a community, the risk is higher. A compromised moderator account gives attackers the ability to ban users, remove posts, change subreddit settings, or post pinned content to your community. Reddit's admin team can in some cases restore a compromised mod account, but the process takes time and can cause real damage to your community in the interim. Enable 2FA on all moderator accounts and encourage co-moderators to do the same.
Reddit 2FA on Mobile
Reddit's mobile app supports 2FA at sign-in the same way the desktop site does. When you sign in on the app from a new device or after clearing app data, you will be prompted to enter your 2FA code. The authenticator app on your phone generates the code even without an internet connection.