Why did I get an email about a one-time security code?

Updated Apr 09, 2024
If Dropbox detects a suspicious login attempt, we’ll send a one-time security code to the email address associated with your Dropbox account as an additional security step.
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Important: If you receive an email that seems like it’s from Dropbox and you’re unsure if it’s safe, you can check our official domains here.

If you tried to log in to your Dropbox account and received an email about a one-time security code, use the one-time security code to complete your log in. 

What if I didn’t try to log in to my account recently?

If you didn’t recently try to log in to your Dropbox account and received an email about a one-time security code, someone else may be trying to access your account. Follow the instructions below based on the email you received.

An email from Dropbox containing a one-time security code and a link for users to follow to reset their password.
If you received the email above, click I didn't try to sign in, and follow the prompts to reset your password.
​​Alt text: An email from Dropbox containing a one-time security code and a message that the user can ignore this email.
If you received the email above, you don’t need to take any further action.

I didn’t receive an email with the one-time security code

If you didn’t receive a one-time security code, the email may have been sent to a spam folder or held by a spam filter. 
 

Add no-reply@dropbox.com to your contacts or trusted senders and click on Resend Code.

What should I do if my one-time security code isn’t working?

If your one-time security code isn’t working, the code may be expired. Try to log in to your Dropbox account again to receive a new code. If you still aren’t able to log in to your account, contact Dropbox support.

What should I do if I’ve lost access to my email?

If you’ve lost access to the email you used to register with Dropbox, try the following methods before contacting Dropbox support:
 

Use your Dropbox emergency backup code
 

You may have set an emergency backup code on the security settings page. This code will allow you to access your account if you have lost access to your email.


To use your emergency backup code:

  1. Click Having trouble getting a code? on the window that appears when you try to log in.
  2. Click Enter the emergency backup code.
  3. Enter your code.


To prevent a similar issue occurring again, change the email address associated with your Dropbox account to one you have access to.
 

Learn more about changing the email on your Dropbox account.

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