Finding out that your Facebook account has been hacked can be a frustrating and overwhelming experience. Hackers might post unauthorized content, impersonate you, or try to access sensitive information. However, by taking swift action, you can regain control and secure your account.
This guide breaks down what to do when your Facebook account is hacked, providing actionable steps to help you recover and protect your account. Whether you’ve spotted unusual activity or been locked out, follow these steps to safeguard your online presence.
Step 1: Change Your Facebook Password
If you still have access to your account, your first step should be changing your password immediately. Ensure your new password is strong and unique. Avoid common or easily guessable passwords and instead use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Go to Settings & Privacy > Security and Login > Change Password.
- Choose a password you’ve never used before for an added layer of security.
If you’re unable to log in, use Facebook’s account recovery tool to reset your password.
Step 2: Change Your Email Password
Hackers often target the email linked to your Facebook account. Check for any strange login alerts or password reset attempts.
- If there’s any suspicious activity, change your email account password immediately, ensuring it is secure.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your email for added security!
Step 3: Review Recent Activity
Facebook allows you to review recent account activity. Look for unfamiliar logins, messages, friend requests, or posts.
- Navigate to Settings & Privacy > Security and Login > Where You’re Logged In.
- Review the listed devices. If you spot any unfamiliar ones, click on the three-dot menu and Log Out.
Step 4: Report the Hack to Facebook
Facebook provides tools to report hacked accounts. If you suspect that your account has been compromised, report it using the Facebook support page for hacked accounts.
Facebook will guide you through the recovery process, which may involve verifying your identity using official documents.
Step 5: Enable Two-Factor Authentication
To prevent future hacks, enable two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an additional security step when logging in, requiring a code from your mobile device.
- Go to Settings & Privacy > Security and Login > Two-Factor Authentication.
- Select the authentication method, such as a third-party authentication app like Google Authenticator or text message verification.
2FA ensures that even if someone guesses your password, they cannot access your account without the unique code.
Step 6: Notify Friends and Family
Hackers may use your account to send messages, requests, or share malicious links. Reach out to your contacts to warn them about potential suspicious activity. This helps prevent others from falling victim or interacting with harmful links.
Step 7: Check Authorized Logins
Review the apps and devices linked to your Facebook account. Hackers often use these access points to exploit your account.
- Go to Settings & Privacy > Apps and Websites.
- Revoke access to any apps or services you don’t recognize or no longer use.
Step 8: Update Privacy Settings
This step adds a proactive layer of defense. Strengthen your privacy settings to control who can see posts or access sensitive information.
- Limit who can see your posts to friends only.
- Avoid displaying personal details like your full birthdate or phone number.
Step 9: Monitor Your Account
After regaining control, keep a close watch on your account for any suspicious activity. Regular monitoring ensures you notice and address potential threats quickly.
- Enable login alerts to receive notifications on unrecognized login attempts.
Additional Tips to Stay Secure
- Be cautious with links: Phishing attacks often involve fake links that impersonate official websites. Avoid clicking on unauthorized links in emails or messages.
- Use a password manager: A password manager can help you create and store strong, unique passwords for all your accounts.
- Educate yourself about hacking tactics: Learn about common scams, such as phishing emails and fake websites, to stay ahead of potential threats.
- Regularly update passwords: Renew your passwords regularly, especially for sensitive accounts like social media and online banking.
What If Recovery Attempts Fail?
If the above steps don’t work, consider using a professional third-party service like Hacked.com. These services specialize in account recovery and provide ongoing digital protection plans.
Protect Your Online Presence
Preventing your account from being hacked is always easier than recovering it. Follow these steps to secure your Facebook account and avoid the headaches that come with unauthorized access.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with your friends to ensure everyone can protect their online presence!
By taking action now, you can ensure your Facebook experience remains safe, secure, and enjoyable.
