Can't get Two-Factor code

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Level 2

197 points

Can't get Two-Factor code

Hello.

I'm asking this for my stepson. I have his Apple ID and password, but he no longer has the phone or phone number he used when he set up his account, so he's not able to receive a code for two-factor authentication. He purchased Final Cut Pro a couple years ago but because he can't sign into his Apple ID, he can't re-download the program to install on our new computer (he also doesn't have the laptop he owned when he first downloaded and installed it...long story).

Is there anything he can do to bypass the two-factor authentication (he's able to sign in up to the point of receiving the T-FA code)? He needs to access the App Store so he can re-download it.

Thank you.

iMac (M1, 2021)

Posted on Oct 20, 2023 10:01 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

FoxFifth

Community+ 2025

Level 10

475,395 points

Oct 20, 2023 11:05 AM in response to Lloyd Lathrop

He would need a trusted device or trusted phone number. If that wasn't required it would be a way for someone to gain access to his account without using two-factor authentication. See the information about trusted devices in: If you forgot your Apple ID password - Apple Support

Account recovery is the only option that I know of in his situation. How to use account recovery when you can’t reset your Apple ID password - Apple Support

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Answer 2

Oct 20, 2023 10:07 AM in response to Lloyd Lathrop

If he doesn't have any trusted devices or trusted phone numbers, see the following from Get a verification code and sign in with two-factor authentication - Apple Support

If you can’t sign in, reset your password, or receive verification codes, you can request account recovery to regain access to your account. Account recovery might take a few days or longer, depending on the specific account information you can provide to verify your identity.

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Answer 3

Lloyd Lathrop Author

Level 2

197 points

Oct 20, 2023 10:13 AM in response to FoxFifth

FoxFifth,

Thanks for the reply. I've seen this response before so I'll give it a try, but what happens if he selects "Forgot Password?" and changes it? Does he get immediate access to his account or will it still ask for a T-WA code?

Lloyd

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