What to do when you forget your password
Learn how to recover your password for email, apps, and your phone when you have forgotten it.
What you will learn
In this guide, you will learn what to do when you forget your password. Whether it is your email, an app like WhatsApp or Facebook, or your phone itself, there is almost always a way to get back in.
What you need
- Access to the phone number or email address linked to your account
- A computer, phone, or tablet with Internet access
The steps
Step 1: Do not panic
Forgetting a password happens to everyone. Your account and all your information are still safe. You just need to prove who you are to get a new password.
Step 2: Go to the login page
Open the app or website where you forgot your password. On the login screen, look for a link that says “Forgot password?”, “Reset password”, or “Need help signing in?”. Tap or click on it.
Step 3: Enter your email or phone number
The service will ask you to type your email address or phone number that is linked to your account. Type it carefully and tap “Next” or “Continue”.
Step 4: Check for a verification code
The service will send you a verification code. This is a short number (usually 6 digits) sent to your phone as a text message or to your email. Open your messages or email to find it. The code usually arrives within one minute.
Step 5: Enter the code and create a new password
Go back to the password reset page and type in the verification code you received. Then you will be asked to create a new password. Choose a password that is at least 8 characters long and mixes letters and numbers.
Write your new password down on a piece of paper and keep it in a safe place at home.
Step 6: Sign in with your new password
Go back to the login page and sign in using your email address and your new password. You are now back in your account.
If you use the same password on other services, remember to update it there too.
Helpful tips
- Write passwords down: Keep a small notebook at home with your passwords. This is the safest way for most people to remember them.
- Use different passwords: Try not to use the same password everywhere. If one account gets compromised, the others stay safe.
- Recovery email: When you create an account, always add a recovery email address or phone number. This is what allows you to reset your password later.
- Common services: Here are the password reset pages for popular services:
- Gmail: accounts.google.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/login/identify
- WhatsApp: WhatsApp uses your phone number and a verification code sent by SMS
- Apple ID: iforgot.apple.com
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Frequently asked questions
What if I cannot remember my email address either?
If you use Gmail, go to accounts.google.com and click Forgot email. Google can help you find your account using your phone number.
Will I lose my data if I reset my password?
No. Resetting your password only changes your password. Your emails, photos, and files remain exactly where they are.
What if I do not have access to my phone number anymore?
Most services offer alternative recovery options, such as a recovery email address or security questions. If you set these up when you created your account, you can use them now.
How can I avoid forgetting my password in the future?
Write your passwords down in a notebook and keep it in a safe place at home. You can also ask a trusted family member to keep a copy.
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