How To Sign Out On Amazon: A Comprehensive Guide
Signing out of your Amazon account is essential for security, especially on shared devices. This guide provides a clear explanation of how to sign out on Amazon across various platforms.
Amazon, the e-commerce giant, has become an integral part of our lives. We use it for shopping, streaming videos, reading books, and much more. However, leaving your account logged in, especially on public or shared devices, can pose significant security risks. This guide provides a comprehensive look at why signing out is crucial and exactly how to sign out on Amazon across all your devices.
The Importance of Signing Out
Leaving your Amazon account logged in on a shared device is like leaving your wallet unattended. Anyone with access to that device can:
- Make unauthorized purchases
- Access your payment information
- View your order history
- Gain access to your Amazon Prime benefits
- Potentially gain access to other connected accounts
Essentially, failing to sign out on Amazon exposes your personal and financial information to potential misuse.
Why Sign Out Matters Even On Personal Devices
While it’s less critical than on shared devices, signing out even on your personal devices can be beneficial. For example:
- Increased Security: In case your device is stolen or compromised, signing out limits the damage.
- Account Separation: If you share your device with family members but want to maintain separate Amazon accounts, signing out is a must.
- Privacy: Prevents others from accidentally accessing your account if they happen to use your device.
How To Sign Out On Amazon: A Step-by-Step Guide Across Devices
Here’s a detailed guide on how to sign out on Amazon across various devices:
1. On a Desktop Computer (Website):
- Go to the Amazon website.
- Hover over “Account & Lists” in the top right corner of the screen.
- Scroll down to the bottom of the dropdown menu.
- Click “Sign Out“.
2. On the Amazon Mobile App (iOS and Android):
- Open the Amazon app.
- Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner (or top left on some older versions).
- Scroll down to “Settings“.
- Tap “Sign Out“.
- Confirm that you want to sign out.
3. On Amazon Fire Tablets:
- Swipe down from the top of the screen to access Quick Settings.
- Tap the gear icon to open Settings.
- Go to “My Account”.
- Tap “Deregister”.
- Confirm that you want to deregister (which effectively signs you out). Note: Deregistering your device will remove all content downloaded to the device.
4. On Amazon Fire TV Devices:
- Go to “Settings”.
- Select “My Account”.
- Choose “Deregister”.
- Confirm the deregistration.
5. Managing Signed-In Devices from Your Amazon Account:
Amazon allows you to manage all devices signed into your account. This is especially helpful if you suspect unauthorized access or have forgotten to sign out on a device.
- Go to the Amazon website on a desktop computer.
- Hover over “Account & Lists” and select “Your Account.”
- Under “Digital content and devices”, click “Content & Devices.”
- Click the “Devices” tab.
- Here, you’ll see a list of all registered devices.
- You can deregister devices you no longer use or those you suspect may be compromised. Deregistering a device removes your Amazon account information from it and effectively signs it out.
Common Mistakes When Signing Out
- Confusing “Sign Out” with “Deregister”: While deregistering signs you out, it also removes all content downloaded to the device, so use it cautiously.
- Forgetting to Sign Out on Public Computers: Always double-check that you’ve signed out after using Amazon on a public computer.
- Assuming Closing the Browser Signs You Out: Simply closing the browser window doesn’t always sign you out of Amazon, especially if you’ve chosen to save your login information.
Additional Security Tips
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code from your phone in addition to your password.
- Use a Strong Password: Create a complex and unique password for your Amazon account.
- Regularly Review Your Account Activity: Check your order history and payment information for any suspicious activity.
Table: Methods for Signing Out on Different Devices
| Device | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Desktop Computer | Account & Lists > Sign Out | Easiest and most straightforward method. |
| Mobile App (iOS/Android) | Menu > Settings > Sign Out | Make sure you’re using the official Amazon app. |
| Fire Tablet | Swipe Down > Settings > My Account > Deregister | Warning: Removes all downloaded content. |
| Fire TV | Settings > My Account > Deregister | Removes account details from the Fire TV device. |
| Remote Management | Website > Account > Content & Devices > Devices > Deregister | Useful for remotely signing out of devices you no longer use or suspect are compromised. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if I’m signed out of Amazon on my computer?
After clicking “Sign Out“, you will be redirected to the Amazon homepage, where you’ll see a “Sign In” button in the top right corner. This confirms that you are no longer signed into your account.
Is it safe to save my password on Amazon?
While convenient, saving your password on Amazon presents a security risk, especially on shared devices. It’s generally safer to use a password manager or remember a strong, unique password.
What happens if I forget to sign out of Amazon on a public computer?
Change your Amazon password immediately. Then, using a secure device, navigate to your account settings on Amazon’s website and review your recent order history for any suspicious activity. Deregister any unfamiliar devices connected to your account.
Can I sign out of Amazon remotely?
Yes, as mentioned earlier, you can remotely sign out of devices by going to your Amazon account on a computer, navigating to “Content & Devices,” selecting the “Devices” tab, and deregistering the desired device.
Does changing my Amazon password automatically sign me out on all devices?
Yes, changing your Amazon password will sign you out on all devices, providing an extra layer of security if you suspect unauthorized access.
What if I can’t find the “Sign Out” button on my Amazon app?
Ensure you have the latest version of the Amazon app installed. The location of the “Sign Out” button may vary slightly depending on the app version, but it’s generally found under “Settings” within the app’s menu.
Why does Amazon sometimes require me to verify my identity even after signing in?
Amazon uses identity verification measures, like sending a code to your registered phone or email, as an added security layer to prevent unauthorized access to your account, especially from new devices or locations.
How often should I sign out of Amazon?
You should always sign out on Amazon when using a public or shared device. On personal devices, signing out regularly, perhaps weekly, provides an extra layer of security.
Does signing out of Amazon Prime Video also sign me out of my Amazon account?
Typically, signing out of Amazon Prime Video also signs you out of your general Amazon account on that device. However, it’s always best to verify by checking if you’re still logged into the main Amazon website or app.
What’s the difference between signing out and deregistering a device on Amazon?
Signing out simply removes your account credentials from the device. Deregistering removes the device entirely from your Amazon account, removing all downloaded content and requiring you to re-register if you wish to use it again.
Is it possible to set up a PIN or password for my Amazon account on a shared device?
While Amazon doesn’t offer a specific PIN lock for the general Amazon app, you can set up parental controls on Amazon Kids or Prime Video profiles to restrict access to certain content or purchases.
What should I do if I suspect my Amazon account has been hacked even after signing out?
Contact Amazon customer support immediately. They can help you secure your account, investigate any fraudulent activity, and take steps to prevent future breaches.