Securing Your Shopping Cart: Requiring a Password for Amazon Purchases

Want to add an extra layer of protection to your Amazon account and prevent unauthorized purchases? Requiring a password for every transaction is a savvy move in today’s digital landscape. Here’s the definitive guide on how to do it:

The direct answer: To require a password for Amazon purchases, you need to activate the “Voice Purchasing,” “Require voice code” and/or “PIN” feature within the Alexa app settings. This will affect purchases made using Alexa voice commands. For purchases made directly through the Amazon website or app, you can’t require a password for every single purchase. However, you can enable two-factor authentication (2FA), also known as two-step verification, which requires a code from your phone or authenticator app whenever you sign in to your Amazon account on a new device or browser. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized purchases, as someone would need both your password and access to your verification method to make a purchase.

Mastering Amazon Security: A Deep Dive

While Amazon doesn’t offer a direct “require password for every purchase” setting for website and app transactions (beyond requiring your password for login), the measures outlined above, when used in combination, provide a robust defense against unwanted spending. Let’s break down how to implement each strategy:

Configuring Voice Purchasing Security

If you use Alexa to make purchases, this is your first line of defense.

1. Open the Alexa App: Launch the app on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Navigate to Settings: Tap the menu icon (usually three horizontal lines) and select “Settings.”
3. Find Voice Purchasing: Scroll down and tap on “Voice Purchasing.”
4. Enable “Require voice code”: Toggle this switch. You’ll be prompted to create a 4-digit voice code.
5. Set Your Voice Code: Choose a unique code that’s difficult to guess.

Now, whenever you try to buy something through Alexa, you’ll need to say your voice code. This prevents accidental or unauthorized purchases made by others.

Implementing Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

This crucial security feature drastically reduces the risk of account compromise.

1. Access Your Amazon Account: Log in to your Amazon account on a computer (it’s usually easier to configure 2FA this way).
2. Go to Account & Lists: Hover over “Account & Lists” in the top right corner and click on “Your Account.”
3. Navigate to Login & Security: Under “Account Settings,” click on “Login & Security.”
4. Edit Two-Step Verification (2SV) Settings: Find the “Two-Step Verification (2SV) Settings” section and click “Edit.”
5. Get Started: Click the “Get Started” button.
6. Choose Your Verification Method: You can choose to receive a verification code via text message or use an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator, Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator). Using an authenticator app is generally considered more secure, as it isn’t susceptible to SIM swapping or SMS interception.
7. Follow the Instructions: Amazon will guide you through the process of setting up your chosen verification method. You’ll likely need to enter a code sent to your phone or scan a QR code with your authenticator app.
8. Verify Your Backup Method: Amazon will also ask you to provide a backup method for receiving verification codes in case you lose access to your primary method. This could be another phone number or a backup code that you should store securely.
9. Turn On Two-Step Verification: Once you’ve completed the setup, click the “Turn on Two-Step Verification” button.

From now on, whenever you log in to your Amazon account on a new device or browser, you’ll be prompted to enter a code from your chosen verification method in addition to your password.

Additional Security Enhancements

Beyond voice purchasing security and 2FA, consider these supplementary measures:

• Strong Password: Ensure your Amazon password is strong, unique, and not used for other accounts. Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.
• Regular Password Updates: Change your Amazon password periodically.
• Monitor Your Account Activity: Regularly review your Amazon account activity for any suspicious purchases or logins.
• Beware of Phishing: Be cautious of suspicious emails or messages that ask for your Amazon login credentials. Never click on links in such messages and always log in directly to your Amazon account through the official website or app.
• Limit Payment Options: Remove any payment methods from your Amazon account that you no longer use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about securing your Amazon purchases with passwords and other security measures.

1. Can I require a password for every purchase on the Amazon website or app?

No, Amazon does not offer a setting to require a password for every single purchase made directly through the website or app once you are logged in. However, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a significant layer of security by requiring a code from your phone or authenticator app when logging in on a new device.

2. What is two-factor authentication (2FA) and why should I use it?

Two-factor authentication (2FA), also known as two-step verification, adds an extra layer of security to your Amazon account. It requires you to provide two forms of identification when you log in: your password and a verification code sent to your phone or generated by an authenticator app. This makes it much more difficult for someone to access your account, even if they know your password. It’s highly recommended to enable 2FA.

3. How do I choose between text message and authenticator app for 2FA?

While both methods provide added security, authenticator apps are generally considered more secure than text messages. Text messages can be intercepted or spoofed, making them vulnerable to attacks like SIM swapping. Authenticator apps generate codes offline, eliminating this risk.

4. What should I do if I lose access to my phone or authenticator app?

When setting up 2FA, Amazon requires you to provide a backup verification method, such as another phone number or a set of backup codes. Store these backup codes in a safe place. If you lose access to your primary verification method, you can use the backup method to regain access to your account. Contact Amazon customer service if you have trouble.

5. How do I change my Amazon password?

Log in to your Amazon account, go to “Account & Lists,” then “Your Account,” and then “Login & Security.” You’ll find the option to change your password there. Choose a strong, unique password that you don’t use for other accounts.

6. How do I enable a voice code for Alexa purchases?

Open the Alexa app, go to “Settings,” then “Voice Purchasing,” and enable the “Require voice code” option. You’ll be prompted to create a 4-digit code.

7. Can I disable voice purchasing altogether?

Yes. In the same “Voice Purchasing” settings within the Alexa app, you can toggle the “Purchase by voice” switch to the off position.

8. What are Amazon Household profiles and how can they help with security?

Amazon Household allows you to share certain Amazon benefits with family members while maintaining separate accounts. This means each person has their own login credentials and payment information, reducing the risk of unauthorized purchases on your account. It also facilitates better purchase tracking and personalized recommendations.

9. How can I monitor my Amazon account activity for suspicious purchases?

Regularly check your “Your Orders” section on the Amazon website or app. Look for any purchases you don’t recognize. Also, review your payment methods to ensure they are all accurate and up-to-date.

10. What should I do if I suspect my Amazon account has been hacked?

Immediately change your Amazon password and enable 2FA if you haven’t already. Contact Amazon customer service to report the suspected unauthorized activity. They can help you investigate and take steps to secure your account.

11. Are there any parental control options available for Amazon purchases?

Yes. Amazon offers parental control features, particularly for Kindle devices and content. You can set restrictions on what content can be purchased and downloaded, as well as require a password for purchases.

12. How does Amazon protect my payment information?

Amazon uses encryption and other security measures to protect your payment information. However, it’s also crucial to practice good security habits, such as using a strong password, enabling 2FA, and being cautious of phishing scams. Remember to review your bank and credit card statements regularly for any unauthorized charges.