Facebook, also known as FB, is still widely used as a social media platform today. It is essential to regularly check your FB account to prevent hacking. However, if it does happen, don’t worry. There are steps provided by Facebook to recover a hacked account.
Facebook has specific procedures and support teams dedicated to helping account owners regain control of their accounts. According to Facebook Help Center, there are various signs of a hacked FB account, including changes in email, password, name, or birthdate.
Other signs may include friend requests sent to unknown individuals, messaging activities, and ads or statuses you did not create. If you notice these signs, take immediate action to recover your account. Here’s how to recover a hacked Facebook account:
1. Log in and change your password
The first step is to log in to your Facebook account using your email or phone number and the usual password. If you can still log in and access your account, change the password immediately for enhanced security. Here are the steps:
- Click on the downward arrow in the upper right corner of Facebook.
- Select “Settings & Privacy” > “Settings.”
- On the left side, choose “Security & Login.”
- Under “Login,” click “Edit” to the right of “Change Your Password.”
- Enter your old password, then enter a new strong password containing a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
2. Use the forgot password option
If you can’t log in because the hacker changed the password, use the “Forgot Password” option. Follow these steps:
- On the Facebook login page, click “Forgot Password” below the login box.
- Enter the email address or phone number associated with your account, or search for your account by name.
- Follow Facebook’s instructions to reset your password.
- A verification code will be sent via email or SMS; enter it to reset your password.
3. Use two-factor authentication
Facebook provides additional security features, such as two-factor authentication (2FA), to protect your account. You can enable this feature for added security. Here’s how:
- Go to “Settings & Privacy” > “Settings” > “Security & Login” on Facebook.
- Click “Use Two-Factor Authentication” and follow the instructions.
- After enabling 2FA, users will need an authenticator app or SMS code to access their accounts.
4. Report scams
If your Facebook account is being used for scams or to damage your reputation, you can report it to Facebook. Here’s how:
- Visit the fake or scam account’s profile and click the three dots on the right side of the cover photo.
- Select “Report” and follow the provided instructions.
5. Check your email address
Another way to recover a hacked FB account is by checking the email address associated with the account. Facebook notifications and information about changes to your account are sent to this email. If you receive emails about unfamiliar activities, it may be a sign of a hacked account.
6. Contact the Facebook team
Facebook has a specialized team to handle hacked accounts. Here are the steps to report a hacked account:
- Visit https://www.facebook.com/hacked.
- Follow the instructions provided to report the hacked account.
- Ensure you provide accurate and complete information to Facebook support to help verify your account ownership.
- During the account recovery process, you may be asked to provide proof of identity, such as a photo ID or other documents showing you are the account owner.
- Follow the instructions from the Facebook support team carefully.
These are the steps to recover a hacked Facebook account. Hopefully, this information is helpful.