How to Update Amazon Security Settings
If you use Amazon for shopping, subscriptions, or Alexa-connected devices, your account can hold a lot of personal and payment data.
This guide explains how to update Amazon security settings step by step and shows which protections matter most for everyday account safety.
Amazon’s security tools are straightforward once you know where to look, but the most important options are easy to miss.
A few quick changes can make it much harder for someone else to access your account or approve purchases.
Why Amazon account security matters
An Amazon account may contain saved credit cards, delivery addresses, gift card balances, Prime membership details, browsing history, and digital content libraries.
If an attacker gains access, they can place orders, change shipping information, or use stored payment methods.
Security becomes even more important if you use the same email and password across multiple services.
Credential stuffing attacks often target reused passwords, so one compromised login elsewhere can expose your Amazon account.
Where to find Amazon security settings
You can review most security options from the Amazon website or mobile app.
On desktop, sign in and open your account menu, then navigate to Login & security under account settings.
On the app, go to your profile or account area and look for security-related account management options.
Depending on your region, the exact labels may differ slightly, but the core controls usually include:
- password changes
- two-step verification
- saved device and sign-in management
- payment and address review
- notification preferences
How to update Amazon security settings step by step
1. Change your password
Start with your password if it is old, reused, or weak.
Choose a unique password that is long and difficult to guess, and avoid common patterns such as names, dates, or repeated characters.
To update it, open Login & security, select the password option, and follow the prompts.
If you use a password manager such as 1Password, Bitwarden, or LastPass, let it generate and store a strong password for you.
2. Turn on two-step verification
Two-step verification, often called 2SV or two-factor authentication, adds a second check during login.
Even if someone learns your password, they still need the verification code to sign in.
Amazon supports verification through authenticator apps and, in some cases, text messages.
An authenticator app such as Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Authy is usually more secure than SMS because codes are not tied to your mobile number.
After enabling 2SV, confirm that your backup options are current so you are not locked out if you change phones.
3. Review signed-in devices and sessions
Check whether Amazon shows recently used devices, browsers, or sessions.
If you see a device you do not recognize, sign it out immediately and change your password.
This step is especially useful after logging in on a shared computer, public device, or a family member’s phone.
Removing unknown sessions helps cut off access even if a browser stayed signed in.
4. Update recovery information
Make sure your email address and phone number are current.
Recovery details are used for password resets, security alerts, and verification codes.
If your old email is no longer active or your number has changed, update those fields right away.
Incorrect recovery information can delay account access when you need it most.
5. Check payment methods and addresses
Security is not only about login access.
Review saved payment methods, shipping addresses, and gift card settings to spot changes you do not recognize.
If a stranger ever accesses your account, they may add a new card, change a default address, or place orders to a different location.
Delete outdated cards and addresses you no longer use.
Best Amazon security settings to enable
Some settings offer more protection than others.
If you want the strongest practical setup, prioritize the following:
- Unique password: never reuse a password from another site.
- Two-step verification: add a second login barrier.
- Updated recovery email and phone number: keep account recovery reliable.
- Session review: remove unfamiliar devices or browsers.
- Order alerts: monitor purchases and sign-in activity.
These changes work together.
A strong password reduces risk, 2SV blocks many unauthorized logins, and alerts help you catch suspicious activity quickly.
How to spot suspicious Amazon activity
Watch for signs that someone may be trying to access your account.
Common warning signs include unexpected password reset emails, sign-in alerts from unfamiliar locations, unrecognized orders, or changes to your default shipping address.
You should also pay attention to customer service calls or messages claiming to be from Amazon.
Fraudsters often use phishing emails, fake login pages, or support impersonation to steal credentials.
If something looks suspicious, do not click random links in email messages.
Instead, open Amazon directly in your browser or app and verify the activity from your account.
How to protect your Amazon account beyond the settings menu
Updating security settings is important, but daily habits matter too.
A secure account is easier to maintain when you avoid common mistakes.
- Use a password manager instead of memorizing weak passwords.
- Do not sign in on unknown or public devices unless necessary.
- Keep your email account secured with its own strong password and 2SV.
- Be cautious with links in text messages and emails.
- Log out of shared devices after each use.
Your email account is especially important because Amazon often uses it for password resets and account notifications.
If your email is compromised, your Amazon security can be undermined even if Amazon itself is configured well.
How to update Amazon security settings on mobile
If you prefer the Amazon mobile app, the process is similar, though menus can appear in a different order.
Open the app, go to your account area, and look for login, security, and password settings.
Mobile access is useful for quick checks such as confirming a purchase, reviewing a sign-in alert, or changing your password after a suspicious event.
After making updates, verify that your app is current, since outdated apps can sometimes display incomplete security menus.
What to do if you suspect your account has been compromised
If you think someone else has access to your account, act quickly.
Change your password first, then enable or reconfigure two-step verification if needed.
Next, review recent orders, payment methods, addresses, and devices.
Remove anything unfamiliar and contact Amazon support if you see unauthorized purchases or changes you cannot reverse.
For financial safety, also monitor your credit card or bank account for suspicious charges.
If a compromised Amazon login exposed billing details, your card issuer may need to be notified.
How often should you review Amazon security settings?
You do not need to change security settings daily, but periodic reviews are smart.
A good habit is to check your Amazon account every few months, or immediately after any password reuse incident, phishing attempt, or device loss.
It is also worth reviewing settings after major life changes such as a new phone number, new email address, travel, or moving to a new home.
Small updates can prevent recovery problems later.
Amazon security settings checklist
- Changed to a unique password
- Enabled two-step verification
- Verified recovery email and phone number
- Reviewed logged-in devices
- Checked payment methods and addresses
- Removed suspicious sessions or unknown access
- Turned on account notifications where available
Use this checklist anytime you set up a new account, replace a device, or notice unusual activity.
Keeping these controls current is one of the most effective ways to reduce account risk.