How to Update Your User Profile

Before you start

• Have your login details ready (username/email and password).
• Prepare any new information you want to add, such as a new email, phone number, mailing address, or profile photo.
• If you plan to change security settings, have your phone or authenticator app available.

Update your profile on the web

1. Sign in:

• Go to the service’s website and log in.
• If prompted for two-factor authentication (2FA), complete it.

2. Open account settings:

• Click your avatar or name in the top corner.
• Look for links named Profile, Account, Settings, or My Account.

3. Edit your profile information:

• Display name: The name shown to others. Some services also have a separate username or handle.
• Email address: Often requires a verification email. You may need to confirm by clicking a link.
• Phone number: May require SMS verification. Enter your country code.
• Profile photo: Upload a clear image; follow size/format guidelines (JPEG or PNG). Use the crop tool to center your face or logo.
• Bio and links: Short description, website, or social profiles if supported.
• Location, language, time zone: Helps with localization and notifications.

4. Save changes:

• Look for Save, Update, or Submit at the bottom of the page.
• If you changed contact info, complete any verification steps sent via email or SMS.

Update your profile in a mobile app

1. Open the app and sign in.
2. Tap your profile icon or menu (often labeled Profile, Account, or Settings).
3. Edit fields like name, photo, bio, email, and phone.
4. Tap Save or Done, then complete any verification prompts.

Review security and privacy settings

• Change password: Choose a long, unique passphrase. Avoid reusing passwords.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Prefer an authenticator app over SMS if possible. Store backup codes securely.
• Session management: Sign out of other sessions or unfamiliar devices.
• Connected apps: Revoke access for apps you no longer use.
• Privacy controls: Adjust who can see your profile details, posts, or activity. Review search engine visibility if offered.
• Communication preferences: Set email, SMS, and push notification preferences for alerts, newsletters, and marketing.
• Data and personalization: Review ad preferences, data sharing, and personalization settings.

Common profile fields and tips

• Username/handle: Often cannot be changed, or has limits. If changeable, expect availability checks.
• Display name vs. legal name: Some services require your legal name for billing or compliance; others allow a preferred name.
• Address and billing info: Update for accurate shipping and receipts; re-validate your payment methods if needed.
• Pronouns and accessibility preferences: Add pronouns and adjust accessibility options (text size, captions) if available.

Troubleshooting

• Can’t find the profile page: Search for “Account” or “Profile” in the site menu or Help Center.
• Didn’t receive verification email: Check spam/junk, wait a few minutes, then resend. Confirm your email domain is spelled correctly.
• SMS verification issues: Ensure correct country code and strong signal. Try a voice call option if available.
• Photo won’t upload: Check file size/type; try JPEG or PNG under the size limit. Crop or compress the image.
• Changes didn’t save: Look for required fields marked with an asterisk. Clear your browser cache, try a different browser, or use incognito mode.
• Locked out after changing email or phone: Use account recovery options or contact support with proof of ownership.
• Work or school accounts: Some settings may be managed by an administrator; contact your IT or account admin for changes.

Best practices for account health

• Review your profile and security settings every 3–6 months.
• Use a password manager to create and store unique passwords.
• Enable login alerts so you’re notified of sign-ins from new devices.
• Keep your recovery email and phone number current.
• Download backup codes for 2FA and store them safely offline.