Identity verification
Meta's process of confirming a user is the legitimate owner of an account, typically via photo ID and a code-in-hand selfie.
Written by Shilder Recovery TeamReviewed by Shilder Editorial ReviewLast reviewed 2026-05-15
Identity verification is the appeal path used when standard email/phone-based recovery isn’t possible — for example, when an attacker has changed both contact methods or when proving ownership requires more than account info.
Typical requirements
- Government-issued photo ID (both sides, clear, well-lit).
- Selfie holding a code Meta emails you, taken in good lighting.
- Account information you remember (signup date, original email/phone if known).
What reviewers compare
- Your ID name against the account name (mismatches cause silent rejection).
- Your selfie against prior profile photos on the account (face match).
- Your selfie against the photo on your ID.
Success rates
Higher when:
- ID name clearly matches account name.
- Account had recognizable photos of you (selfies, face shots).
- ID is from a major jurisdiction with verifiable documents.
Lower when:
- Account was anonymous (no clear photos of you).
- ID name differs from account name without explanation.
- Account had primarily AI-generated or graphic-only content.
Typical timeline: 7–30 days. See recovery without email or phone.