Discovering that your Facebook account has been hacked can be distressing. However, with prompt action, you can recover your account and secure it against future attacks. Also, this guide provides a step-by-step process to help you regain control of your hacked Facebook account and protect your personal information.
1. Verify the Hack
First, confirm that your account has indeed been hacked. Signs of a hacked account include unrecognized posts, messages, or changes to your profile information that you did not make. Moreover, you may also receive notifications about login attempts from unfamiliar locations or devices.
2. Try to Log In
Attempt to log in to your Facebook account using your usual credentials. If you can still access your account, proceed to secure it immediately by changing your password and reviewing your security settings. Therefore, if you cannot log in, follow the steps below.
3. Use Facebook’s Account Recovery Options
If you are unable to log in, use Facebook’s account recovery options:
- Go to the Facebook Login page.
- Click on “Forgotten password?”
- Enter your email address, phone number, or full name associated with your account and click “Search.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your password. Moreover, Facebook will send a password reset link to your registered email or phone number.
4. Secure Your Account
Once you have regained access, secure your account by following these steps:
- Change Your Password: Create a strong, unique password that includes a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdays or common words.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Go to Settings > Security and Login > Use two-factor authentication. Follow the prompts to set up 2FA, which adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code from your phone in addition to your password.
- Review Authorized Logins: Check the list of devices and locations that are logged into your account under Settings > Security and Login > Where You’re Logged In. Log out of any suspicious sessions.
5. Check Account Settings
Review and update your account settings to ensure everything is secure:
- Contact Information: Verify that your email addresses and phone numbers are correct and have not been altered.
- Trusted Contacts: Set up trusted contacts who can help you regain access to your account if you get locked out.
- Apps and Websites: Review and remove any suspicious or unfamiliar apps and websites that have access to your account under Settings > Apps and Websites.
6. Report the Hack to Facebook
If you believe your account is still compromised or you need additional help, report the hack to Facebook:
- Visit the Facebook Help Center.
- Search for “Hacked and Fake Accounts” and follow the instructions to report the issue.
7. Notify Your Contacts
Inform your friends and contacts that your account was hacked. This helps them be cautious about any suspicious messages or posts that might have been sent from your account while it was compromised.
8. Monitor Your Account
Keep an eye on your account activity to ensure there are no further unauthorized actions. Also, regularly check your security settings and update your password periodically.
Conclusion
Therefore, recovering a hacked Facebook account requires swift and decisive action. By following these steps, you can regain control of your account, secure it against future attacks, and protect your personal information. Also, stay vigilant and proactive in maintaining your online security to prevent future incidents.