Using two-factor authentication, also known as 2FA, makes all the difference when protecting your Fortnite account.

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With Epic Games releasing all kinds of content to spend money on, an additional layer of protection makes all the difference when preventing hackers from getting hold of your account full of skins.

With Chapter 6 Season 2 on the horizon, there's no better time to activate 2FA before dropping into the action.

But what exactly is 2FA in Fortnite? Keep on reading for everything there is to know about the security measure.

What is Fortnite 2FA?

Fortnite characters gathered together in front of a redbackground
Fortnite. Epic Games

In Fortnite and on the internet at large, 2FA stands for two-factor authentication. You might also hear about MFA, which stands for multi-factor authentication.

In both cases, the definition is pretty simple. It basically means adding an extra layer of security to your account, which is often achieved by sending a one-time access code to your email address or phone number every time you log in.

There are also 'authenticator' apps you can get that generate codes automatically. Whichever method you choose, having that second layer of security helps to verify your identity and stop unwanted third parties from accessing your account.

The full description from Epic reads as such:

"Two-factor authentication (2FA) can be used to help protect your account from unauthorised access by requiring you to enter an additional code when you sign in.

"The two-factor authentication feature currently supports the use of an authenticator app or an email address authentication method."

Why should you set up Fortnite 2FA?

Golden Llama in Fortnite against an orange background
Golden Llama in Fortnite. Epic Games

Epic offers the following four reasons why you should set up 2FA on your Fortnite/Epic account.

  1. Security: "2FA increases the security of your account. Even if somebody guesses your password, they won’t be able to access your account."
  2. Free games: "2FA is required to claim some free games on the Epic Games Store."
  3. Gifting: "2FA is required to send gifts in Fortnite."
  4. Competing in Fortnite: "2FA is required for participation in Fortnite competitive events such as the Fortnite World Cup!"

It's also worth noting that once two-factor authentication is enabled, players will gain access to the following loot in Save the World:

  • 50 Armory Slots
  • 10 Backpack Slots
  • 1 Legendary Troll Stash Llama

How to set up Fortnite 2FA explained

Fortnite key art showing a man walking away from an explosion
Fortnite. Epic Games

As Epic explains on its website, this is what you need to do to set up Fortnite 2FA on your Epic Games Account. Make sure you're logged in before you get started on these steps:

  • Go to the Account page on the Epic Games website
  • Click into the 'Password & Security' tab
  • Under the 'Two-Factor Authentication' heading, you will see the following 2FA options:
    • Two-Factor Authenticator App
    • Email For Two-Factor Authentication
    • SMS Code For Two-Factor Authentication
  • Decide which of those options you want to use going forward
  • Click 'Set Up' next to your chosen method, and follow the on-screen instructions

When you're done, a confirmation message will be sent to your email, and your account page should be automatically updated with this new layer of security. Then you can get back to the fun of playing!

For further details, head to the Fortnite multi-factor authentication page via the official website.

Fortnite is available across PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC via the Epic Games Store.

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Authors

Rob Leane Gaming Editor
Rob LeaneGaming Editor

Rob Leane is the Gaming Editor at Radio Times, overseeing our coverage of the biggest games on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC, mobile and VR. Rob works across our website, social media accounts and video channels, as well as producing our weekly gaming newsletter. He has previously worked at Den of Geek, Stealth Optional and Dennis Publishing.

Black-and-white photo of Matt Poskitt
Matt PoskittFreelance Writer

Matt Poskitt is a freelance journalist who specialises in arts and culture – be that movies, TV, video games, tech or otherwise. Matt headed up the games and entertainment section at T3 (Future Publishing), alongside being found across The Guardian, CNET, PC Gamer Mag, GamesIndustry.biz, Insider, iNews, IGN, TechRadar, PC Gamer Mag, NME and many more.

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