Adding a phone number to your Steam account is the primary way to enable Steam Guard two-factor authentication, which protects your account from unauthorized access, and unlocks features like the Community Market. You can add a phone number to Steam directly from your account settings while logged into the Steam app or a web browser.
Why add a phone number to Steam
Linking a phone number to your Steam account enables two-factor authentication through Steam Guard, requiring a code from your mobile device to log in. This dramatically reduces the risk of account theft. It also allows you to use the Steam Community Market for buying, selling, and trading in-game items, and simplifies account recovery if you ever lose access.
How to add your phone number to Steam
Follow these steps while logged into your Steam account through the desktop application or a web browser:
- Select Account Details from the dropdown menu.
- Under the Contact Info section, click Add a phone number. If you already have a number on the account, you will see Manage your phone number instead.
- Enter your phone number, including the correct country code, and click Next.
- Steam will send an SMS confirmation code to the number you provided. Enter that code in the space provided. Verification may involve a call to the provided number, not just an SMS.
- Click to finish the verification process. Your phone number is now linked to your account.
Steam does not provide separate instructions for iPhone or Android devices for this process.
What to do if you need to change your number
If you need to update or remove an existing phone number, follow the same path: click your profile name, go to Account Details, and under Contact Info you will see Manage your phone number. From there, you can enter a new number or remove the old one.
Troubleshooting verification codes
If the SMS confirmation code does not arrive, first double-check that the country code you selected matches your phone number's country. Ensure your mobile device can receive text messages and is not in airplane mode or blocked by a spam filter. If you are creating accounts without a phone number, note that Steam requires a unique number per account, so a number already in use on another account will not work. If problems persist, try restarting your phone or waiting a few minutes before requesting a new code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Add a Phone Number to My Steam Account?
Yes, you can add a phone number to your Steam account to enhance security and enable additional features such as two-factor authentication.
Can I add a phone number to Steam without using the app?
Yes, you can add a phone number entirely through the Steam website in any web browser. The process is the same as using the desktop application.
Is adding a phone number to Steam mandatory?
No, it is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended for security. Without a phone number, you cannot enable Steam Guard mobile authenticator or use the Community Market.
Can I use the same phone number for multiple Steam accounts?
No, each Steam account requires a unique phone number. You cannot use the same number on more than one account.
What if I never receive the SMS verification code?
Verify your country code is correct and that your phone can receive texts. If the issue continues, check if your carrier blocks short-code messages, and try requesting the code again after a few minutes.
Does adding a phone number affect my privacy on Steam?
Your phone number is used only for account security and verification. It is not shared publicly on your profile or with other Steam users.
