Instagram Isn’t Sending an SMS Code (& What to Do about It)

Quick troubleshooting steps to verify your Instagram account using two-factor authentication

Written by Darlene Antonelli, MA

Last Updated: October 28, 2025 Fact Checked

Not getting the SMS code from Instagram? While the codes are sent to protect your account from hackers and scammers, this 6-digit system can also cause extra frustration when they don't work. But don't worry! This wikiHow article lists ways to fix the error so you can log into your Instagram account quickly.

Why You Didn't Receive an Instagram SMS Security Code

If you haven't received an SMS code, check your blocked numbers to see if you blocked 32665 or 32665. Ensure you're using the same phone number associated with your account, that mobile data is on, your connection is stable, and that you didn't set up 2FA with an authentication app instead of SMS.

1

Check your blocked numbers.

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Lots of people are finding out that the Instagram SMS number is blocked on their phones. Even if you don't think you've ever blocked the number, it may have happened accidentally. Look for 32665 or c in the blocked list and remove it.
- On Android, open your Phone app and tap ⋮ > Settings > Blocked Numbers.
- On iPhone, open Settings and go to Phone > Blocked Contacts > Edit.

2

Make sure you're using the right phone number.

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If you changed phones without updating your Instagram contact information, you won't get the SMS on your new phone number.

3

Check your 2FA authentication app.

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When you enabled 2-factor authentication, you could have used authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Duo Mobile to get login codes sent to you instead of SMS.^{[1]
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4

Turn on mobile data.

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You won't get the SMS code from Instagram without mobile data enabled. You can do this in two ways, depending on the type of phone you have:
- To enable mobile data on Android, open Settings and go to Connections > Mobile networks and tap the toggle next to "Mobile Data" to turn it on (it'll be blue when it's on).^{[2]
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- To enable mobile data on iPhone, open Settings and go to Cellular and tap the switch to toggle on "Cellular Data" (it'll be green when it's on).^{[3]
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- You also want to check your internet & data connection. If you're not in range of your cell service provider's network and aren't using roaming data, you will not get the text from Instagram.

5

Check your internet connection.

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Make sure you don't have Airplane Mode on by tapping the airplane icon in the Quick Panel (Android) or Control Center (iPhone).^{[4]
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6

Turn off VPN or proxy services.

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If you're using a VPN or proxy, try turning it off. Sometimes, Instagram flags certain IP addresses for suspicious activity, which can prevent SMS codes from being delivered.
- If you can’t turn off your VPN or proxy, try changing your IP address instead, or connect to a different network (such as mobile data or another Wi-Fi) with VPN and proxy disabled.

7

Use email instead of SMS.

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You can get the code sent to you via email instead of a text message! Simply click the email option when asked for the code, and it will be sent to the email associated with your Instagram account.
- When you log in, update your phone number so you can easily log in next time! Go to your profile, and tap ☰ > Security > Two-factor authentication > Text message > Change phone number > Next. Enter your new phone number, then tap Next and enter the code when you get it.^{[5]
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8

Check if Instagram's servers are offline.

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If Instagram is down, you won't get an SMS text with the security code to log in. Use sites like https://downdetector.com/status/instagram/ to see if Instagram's servers are offline.
- If it's offline, you have to wait until it's working again before you can log in.