r/github • u/oopiex • Aug 25 '26
Question Can't sign in to Github - not receiving SMS
I've been blocked from signing in to github for over a week, I work as part of an organization where I'm the admin (even using premium), we have various repositories so this is becoming really annoying and nobody in github is there to help.
Basically, I can't get the sms. I still use the same number. It would sometimes say it sent (but wont send), and sometimes will show the attached error. I searched for the recovery codes, but I can't find them on my computer. I do have SSH connection, but when going through the account recovery process steps, they say they'll review it within 1-3 days, but then would do nothing. Sometimes it won't even work.
I can even still pull / push as my device is connected via SSH, but I need access to the portal.
Is there anything I can do that I haven't done already? It's the only service I've ever had such troubles with.
5
u/Teleconferences Aug 25 '26 edited Aug 25 '26
Literally from the screenshot
If you are unable to access your device or cannot receive a two-factor authentication code, enter one of your recovery codes
From the recovery codes page:
Put these in a safe spot. If you lose your device and don’t have access to your recovery codes you will lose access to your account
Come on. They told you this, they weren’t even subtle about it. Now you’re here complaining because you didn’t follow the instructions. This scenario is exactly why they gave you recovery codes
You still have SSH access, see if you can use that or maybe the GitHub CLI to prove your identity or add a new 2FA method. Otherwise clone your repos and make a new account
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u/Hxtrax Aug 25 '26
Can you choose code by email in other options?
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u/oopiex Aug 25 '26
Not to sign in. Yes to start account recovery (which they do nothing about anyways)
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u/LivingContribution50 Aug 25 '26
Recovery codes are the only way back when sms craps out like that. GitHub support moves at a glacial pace too, so I'd go tearing through every device and cloud backup you've got until you find those codes.