How to Add a Trusted Phone Number to Your Apple ID

Apple has a two-factor authentication security feature that requires you to verify your login from a trusted device and phone number before you’re allowed access to your Apple ID with a prompt and verification code. This tutorial shows you how to add a trusted phone number to your Apple ID to be sure you take full advantage of that extra security.

Also read: Apple ID Q&A: 16 Popular Questions Answered

What Is a Trusted Phone Number?

A trusted phone number is a part of Apple’s two-factor authentication structure that protects your Apple ID information from unauthorized access. Your Apple ID contains sensitive information, such as your real name, address, credit card number, etc., and a trusted phone number provides Apple with another way to contact you to identify yourself.

How Does It Work?

When you log in to an Apple device using your Apple ID, your trusted phone number receives a login prompt. If your trusted phone number is used on an iPhone, the prompt shows the approximate location of the device you’re using to logi n to your account. When you agree to the initial prompt, you’ll get a code. This code will be entered into the Apple device you’re trying to log in with.

You can add a trusted phone number to your Apple ID using your iOS, macOS, and iPadOS devices, and any web browser by following the guides below.

Also read: 10 of the Best Fixes for iPhone Not Ringing for Calls

How to Add a Trusted Phone Number on iOS and iPadOS

1. Go to “Settings.”
2. Tap on your Apple ID.

3. Go to “Password & Security.”

4. Tap “Edit” to the right of “Trusted Phone Number.”

5. Tap “Add a trusted phone number.”

6. Select the country, enter the phone number, and select how you want to verify the phone number. Tap “Send.”

7. Enter the verification code received by the phone number you added.

8. Enter your device’s passcode.

9. The new phone number will be added to the “Trusted Phone Numbers” list.

Also read: How to Enable Two-factor Authentication (2FA) in Fortnite and All Epic Games

How to Add a Trusted Phone Number on macOS

1. Launch “System Preferences.”
2. Click on “Apple ID.”

3. Go to “Password & Security.” Click on “Edit … ” to the right of “Trusted Phone Numbers.”

4. Click on the plus (+) button to add a new phone number.

5. Select the country, enter the phone number, and select how you want to verify the phone number. Click “Continue.”

6. Enter the verification code you received and click “Continue.”

7. The phone number you added should be on the “Trusted Phone Numbers” list.

Also read: The Best Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Apps That Sync With Multiple Devices

How to Add a Trusted Phone Number on the Apple Website

1. Go to the Apple ID login page. Click on “Sign In.”

2. Enter your login details.

3. In the “Sign-In and Security tab,” click on “Account Security.”

4. Add a new trusted phone number by clicking on the plus button.

5. Select the country, enter the phone number, and select how you want to verify the phone number. Click “Continue.”

6. Enter the verification code received by the phone number and click “Continue.”

7. Type your Apple ID password.

8. The new phone number will be added to the trusted phone numbers list.

Also read: How to Delete Multiple Contacts from Android and iPhone

How to Remove a Trusted Phone Number

On your iOS or iPadOS device, follow these steps to remove a trusted phone number:

1. Go to “Settings” and tap on your Apple ID.
2. Go to “Password & Security.”
3. Tap the “Edit” button to the right of “Trusted Phone Numbers.”
4. Tap the minus (-) icon to remove a phone number from the list.
5. Tap “Remove” and enter your device’s passcode.

Here’s how to do it on macOS:

1. Open “System Preferences” and click on “Apple ID.”
2. Go to the “Password & Security” tab.
3. Click on “Edit … ” to the right of “Trusted Phone Numbers.”
4. Highlight the phone number you want to remove by clicking on it.
5. Click on the minus (-) icon.

How to remove a trusted phone number on the Apple website:

1. Log in to your Apple ID.
2. Click on “Account Security.”
3. In the “Trusted Phone Numbers” list, click on the minus (-) icon to the right of the phone number you want to remove.

Also read: 2FA and Recycled Phone Numbers Are a Security Risk

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a phone number I don’t own?

Yes. You just need a backup device that can receive verification codes in case you lose access to your phone with a trusted phone number.

However, you need to add the phone number of a person you trust won’t access your Apple ID without permission, as even if someone doesn’t have your login credentials, they can gain access by recovering your account. They only need your Apple ID email and trusted phone numbers list to change your password and get into your account.

2. Can I add a non-Apple cellular device as a trusted phone number?

Any phone number that can receive verification codes through text messages and phone calls can be added as a trusted phone number on your Apple ID. Unfortunately, non-Apple devices won’t receive the permission prompt that shows the approximate location of the device asking for the verification code.

Image credit: Pixabay

Natalie dela Vega

Natalie is a writer specializing in tech how-tos and gaming. When she's not writing, she plays PC games and travels. Here at MakeTechEasier, you will see her write about guides, tips, and solutions for Windows and iOS.