Facebook Account Hacked and Password Changed? Here’s What to Do Immediately

Introduction

Having your Facebook account hacked can be alarming, especially if the hacker changes your password. But don’t panic—there are steps you can take to recover your account and protect your personal information. This guide will walk you through the process of securing your account and preventing future breaches.

Signs Your Facebook Account Has Been Hacked

Before you take action, you need to confirm whether your account has been compromised. Here are some common signs:

• Unexpected password changes
• Unfamiliar login attempts from different locations
• Friends receiving spam messages from your account
• Posts you didn’t create appearing on your timeline
• Your email or phone number linked to the account has changed
• Being logged out unexpectedly from all devices

Immediate Steps to Take

If you suspect your Facebook account has been hacked, follow these urgent steps:

1. Try logging in with your last known credentials.
2. Use Facebook’s “Find Your Account” page (link) to recover your account.
3. Check your email for any security alerts from Facebook.
4. If possible, change your password immediately.
5. Secure your email account to prevent further unauthorized access.
6. Inform your friends and family to prevent them from falling for scams from your account.

Recovering Your Facebook Account

If the hacker changed your password, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Facebook login page and click “Forgotten password?”
2. Enter your email or phone number linked to your account.
3. Follow the instructions to reset your password.
4. If you don’t have access to your email or phone number, use “No longer have access to these?” to get alternative options.
5. If recovery options don’t work, contact Facebook Support.

Securing Your Account Post-Recovery

Once you regain access, take these steps to enhance your security:

• Change your password immediately.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
• Review recent activity for suspicious logins.
• Remove unknown devices from your account.
• Update your email and phone number.
• Turn on login alerts.

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an extra layer of security. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Go to Settings & Privacy > Security & Login.
2. Click on “Use two-factor authentication.”
3. Choose either SMS authentication or an authentication app.
4. Follow the setup instructions and confirm your choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does Facebook account recovery take?

It can take anywhere from a few minutes to several days, depending on the verification steps required.

2. Can I recover my account if my email and phone number have changed?

Yes. Use the “No longer have access to these?” option during recovery and follow Facebook’s instructions.

3. What should I do if the hacker has enabled two-factor authentication?

You’ll need to submit an account recovery request to Facebook and verify your identity.

4. Can I contact Facebook directly for support?

Yes. Use Facebook’s Help Center (link) to report the issue.

5. How do I prevent my Facebook account from being hacked in the future?

Enable 2FA, use a strong password, avoid phishing links, and regularly check your account security settings.

6. Should I delete my account if it gets hacked?

Not necessarily. If you can recover and secure it, there’s no need to delete it.

Conclusion

Recovering a hacked Facebook account can be stressful, but by following these steps, you can regain access and strengthen your account security. Take preventive measures like enabling two-factor authentication and staying vigilant against phishing scams to protect your online presence.