Venmo sits on top of your bank account and your social circle, which makes it a tempting target for thieves and scammers alike. A strong password, an app lock and a few privacy tweaks go a long way. Our GetMyPassword team covers how to change your Venmo password, reset it when you are locked out, and tighten the account against the scams Venmo is known for.
Change your password in settings
- Open the Venmo app or venmo.com and sign in.
- Go to Settings, then Security (or Password).
- Select Change password and enter your current one.
- Type a new password twice and save.
Because Venmo can move real money from your linked bank or card, give it a long, unique password you do not use anywhere else.
Reset a forgotten password
On the sign-in screen tap Forgot password? and enter your email or phone. Venmo sends a reset link or code; follow it to set a new password. You may need to confirm your identity, so keep the email and phone number on the account current and secure — they are the route back in.
Lock the app and go private
Two settings make a big difference. Turn on the PIN and Face/Touch ID lock so the app cannot be opened on an unlocked phone, and enable two-factor authentication. Then set your transactions to Private — Venmo’s default is public, quietly broadcasting who you pay, which is both a privacy leak and a gift to scammers.
Venmo offers no buyer protection for payments to people. Once you send money it is usually gone, so the account’s real defense is keeping strangers out and never paying someone you do not know and trust.
Secure it with a generated password
Give Venmo a unique password from our password generator, store it in a password manager, and keep two-factor authentication on. Stay alert to scams — fake “you’ve been paid” messages, accidental-payment tricks and seller cons — and never share a verification code. Strong login plus healthy suspicion keeps your balance yours.
Frequently asked questions
How do I change my Venmo password if I forgot it?
On the sign-in screen tap “Forgot password?”, enter your email or phone, and follow the reset link or code Venmo sends. You may also need to confirm your identity to finish.
How do I make my Venmo account more secure?
Use a unique, strong password, turn on the app’s PIN or biometric lock and two-factor authentication, and set your transactions to private. Never send money to people you do not know and trust.
Are my Venmo payments public?
By default, yes — Venmo shows your transactions publicly. Go to Settings and Privacy and set both past and future payments to “Private” to stop broadcasting who you pay.