Why login security matters

Your login to KuCoin is the doorway to assets, trading permissions, and withdrawal capabilities. Good platform security is essential, but your choices — password strength, second factors, and recovery planning — are the critical line of defense. This page provides clear, actionable instructions to sign in safely on web and mobile, protect your account with modern multi-factor options, safely use API keys, and recover access if something goes wrong.

Quick summary: enable an authenticator app or hardware key, keep recovery codes offline, and never share passwords or one-time codes with anyone.

Supported sign-in methods

KuCoin supports a variety of authentication flows. Understanding them helps you pick the best protections.

  • Email + password: the primary login flow for web and app.
  • Phone verification / SMS: used for some regions and recovery flows, but less secure than app-based factors.
  • Two-factor authentication (2FA): TOTP authenticator apps and hardware security keys (U2F/FIDO) — highly recommended.
  • Biometric unlock: Face ID / fingerprint on mobile for convenient returning access.
  • Single Sign-On (SSO): enterprise-grade SSO (SAML/OIDC) may be available for corporate accounts.

Recommendation: prefer TOTP or hardware keys to SMS for better protection against SIM-based attacks.

Step-by-step: Logging in (web & mobile)

Web (desktop) login

  1. Open your browser and type https://www.kucoin.com into the address bar (or use a bookmark you created).
  2. Click Log In, enter your registered email or username, then your password.
  3. If you have 2FA enabled, submit the TOTP code from your authenticator app or confirm with a hardware security key.
  4. Review the login notification sent to your email and check the device list in Account → Security.

Mobile app login

  1. Download the official KuCoin mobile app from your device’s app store.
  2. Open the app, enter email and password, and submit the second factor when prompted.
  3. Enable biometric unlock after your first successful login for fast access on that device.
If you see a login you did not initiate, change your password immediately, revoke active sessions, and contact KuCoin support via official channels.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) — best practices

Adding a second factor makes account takeover far more difficult. KuCoin supports multiple second-factor options — pick the one that balances security and practicality for you.

Recommended 2FA methods

Authenticator apps (TOTP)

Use apps like Authy, Google Authenticator, or Microsoft Authenticator to generate codes locally. TOTP is offline and reliable — Authy can also provide encrypted backups for device migration.

Hardware security keys

FIDO2 / U2F keys (YubiKey, SoloKey) provide the strongest phishing-resistant protection. Register a primary and secondary key if possible.

How to enable 2FA

  1. Sign in, navigate to Account → Security.
  2. Select Two-Factor Authentication and choose your preferred method.
  3. Scan the QR code with your authenticator app or register a hardware key, then verify by entering the generated code or touching the key.
  4. Store backup/recovery codes in a secure offline place (encrypted password manager, safe).
If you lose both your 2FA device and backup codes, recovery will require verification and may take time — plan backups carefully.

API keys & programmatic access

API keys enable trading bots, reporting tools, and integrations. Because keys can execute trades and (optionally) withdrawals, protect them like passwords.

API key safety checklist

  • Create separate keys for each application to limit blast radius.
  • Grant the minimal set of permissions required (e.g., read-only for reporting; trading but not withdrawal for bots).
  • Use IP allowlists where available to restrict which servers can use the key.
  • Store secrets in an encrypted vault or secret manager — never commit to code repositories.
  • Rotate keys periodically and remove any unused keys.
If an API key is compromised, revoke it immediately and examine activity logs for unauthorized trades or transfers.

Protecting withdrawals & transfer controls

Because withdrawals send assets off platform, apply strict controls to withdrawal flows and address management.

  • Address whitelist: add known addresses to your whitelist and restrict withdrawals to only those addresses when possible.
  • Manual verification for large transfers: use manual approvals or multi-approver processes for high-value moves.
  • Small test transfers: always send a small amount to a new address before confirming a full transfer.
  • Enable withdrawal notifications: receive email/push notifications that alert you immediately to withdrawals.
Operational tip: if you interact with custodial services, use multi-signature arrangements or time-locked approvals to reduce risk.

Account recovery & lost access

Loss of access can be stressful. KuCoin’s recovery process aims to balance account security with the legitimate user's ability to regain entry.

Forgot password

  1. Use Forgot password on the login screen and enter your registered email.
  2. Follow the secure reset link sent to your inbox and choose a new, strong password.
  3. Re-enable 2FA and verify account settings after regaining access.

Lost 2FA device / no backups

If you lack backup codes and lose access to your 2FA device, contact KuCoin support through the official help portal and follow the verification steps. Be prepared to provide identity documents and account-related information — recovery may require time to ensure safety.

Pro tip: keep at least one secure physical copy of recovery codes in a safe or safety deposit box to shorten recovery time when needed.

Troubleshooting common login problems

“Invalid username or password”

  • Check for Caps Lock and keyboard layout differences.
  • Ensure your password manager fills the correct credentials for KuCoin.
  • If unsure, use the password reset flow.

2FA codes failing

  • Sync your phone’s clock to network time — TOTP requires accurate device time.
  • Enter codes promptly; they typically rotate every 30 seconds.
  • Use backup codes if available or follow recovery instructions if not.

App/browser errors

  • Clear browser cookies and cache or try an incognito window.
  • Update the mobile app to the latest version from the official store.
  • Temporarily disable extensions that may block scripts when diagnosing login issues.
If a problem persists, capture screenshots of error messages and include them when you contact support — it speeds up diagnosis.

Phishing & social-engineering — what to watch for

Phishing is the leading technique attackers use to steal credentials. Awareness is the most effective defense.

Common indicators of phishing attempts

  • Unsolicited messages urging immediate action (e.g., “verify now or lose access”).
  • Links that mimic KuCoin but with subtle typos or extra domain parts.
  • Requests for one-time codes, full passwords, or private keys over chat/email.
  • Unexpected phone calls claiming to be “support” that ask for codes or secrets.
Never provide one-time codes or full passwords in response to unsolicited messages. If in doubt, navigate to KuCoin from a trusted bookmark and verify account status there.

Everyday security habits & checklist

  • Use a unique, strong password stored in a reputable password manager (1Password, Bitwarden, etc.).
  • Enable and prefer authenticator apps or hardware keys for 2FA over SMS.
  • Rotate API keys and revoke unused ones.
  • Keep device software, browsers, and apps up to date to patch vulnerabilities.
  • Use small test transfers to new addresses before moving large amounts.
  • Consider moving long-term holdings to hardware wallets or cold storage rather than keeping large sums on exchanges.
Small habit: enable login and withdrawal notifications so you are alerted quickly to account activity.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my phone number to log in?

Many users register with email and password for primary login. Phone numbers are commonly used for verification and notifications, but availability depends on regional settings — check Account → Settings for options.

Is SMS-based 2FA safe?

SMS is better than no second factor but is vulnerable to SIM swapping and interception. Whenever possible, use TOTP apps or hardware security keys for stronger protection.

How long does account recovery take?

Recovery time depends on the verification required. Straightforward password resets are typically quick; high-assurance recovery (lost 2FA, no backups) may take several days while identity checks are completed to secure your account.

Go to KuCoin — Sign In KuCoin Help Center

Final notes

Secure login is a blend of platform features and personal discipline. Use the strongest available second factor, plan recovery ahead of time, treat API keys as highly sensitive, and adopt simple daily habits (unique passwords, device updates, and notification monitoring). If you suspect compromise, act quickly: change passwords, revoke keys and sessions, and contact KuCoin support via verified channels.

This guidance is informational and general — for account-specific help or recovery, always use KuCoin’s verified support channels and official pages.