Have you ever logged into Facebook only to find that your password no longer works and your associated email has been changed? It’s a heart-dropping moment to realize a hacker has taken control of your account. But don’t worry; there’s a way out of this digital nightmare. Let’s dive into what you can do to regain control and secure your online presence.

Understanding the Breach

Scenario: Facebook Account Hacked, Email and Phone Changed

Imagine logging into Facebook and realizing that your credentials no longer work. Worse, when you try to reset your password, you discover that the recovery email and phone number have been altered. This is a clear sign that your account has been compromised. The hacker has not only accessed your account but also locked you out by changing the key recovery options.

The Risks: Facebook Hacked and Fake Account Creation

In such situations, the risks extend beyond losing access to your account. The hacker might use your identity to create fake accounts or spread misinformation, damaging your reputation and relationships.

The first step in addressing a compromised Facebook account is to recognize the signs of unauthorized access. These signs can be subtle or overt, depending on the hacker’s intentions. Some common indicators include:

Unexpected Email Changes: If you receive an email from Facebook about a change in your email address that you did not initiate, it’s a clear sign of unauthorized access.

Password Inaccessibility: If your password no longer works and you’re sure about entering the correct one, it has likely been changed by someone else.

Signs of Unauthorized Activity: This includes messages you didn’t send, posts you didn’t make, or friend requests sent to people you don’t know.

Immediate Steps to Take

When you suspect that your Facebook account has been compromised, time is of the essence. Acting quickly can prevent further damage and increase the chances of recovering your account.

Securing Your Account: The first step is to try to log into your account and change your password. If this isn’t possible, use Facebook’s ‘Forgot Password’ feature to regain access. It’s also crucial to check and secure your associated email account, as hackers often target this first.

Contacting Facebook Support: If you are unable to regain access through the usual recovery methods, contact Facebook support immediately. They have protocols in place for dealing with hacked accounts.

Changing Passwords and Security Details: Once you regain access, change your password to something strong and unique. Review and update your security information, including your contact details and security questions.

Reclaiming Your Account

Regaining control of your Facebook account involves a few steps, particularly challenging if the hacker has changed your email and phone number.

Step 1: Visit Facebook.com’s Hacked Page

Your first step should be to visit Facebook’s official page for compromised accounts: facebook.com/hacked. This page provides a guided process to regain control of your account.

Step 2: Identity Verification

Facebook will require alternative methods to verify your identity since you have changed your email and phone number. This may include answering security questions, providing photo ID, or confirming your identity through friends.

Facebook may ask you to verify your identity by recognizing friends’ photos or answering personal questions.

What to Do If Recovery Fails?

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might not be able to recover your hacked Facebook account. Here’s what you can do next:

Alternative Recovery Options: Look into Facebook’s additional account recovery options, which might include answering more security questions or getting help from friends.

Create a New Account: If all recovery attempts fail, you may need to consider creating a new Facebook account. Ensure that you secure it with all the preventive measures mentioned.

Reporting to Authorities: If you suspect that your personal information is being used maliciously, it might be wise to report the incident to local law enforcement or cybercrime units.

Preventive Measures for Future Security

After regaining control of your account, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent future incidents. Here are some effective strategies:

Strong Password Practices: Use a complex password that is difficult to guess. It should be a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols and different from the passwords you use on other sites.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA on your Facebook account. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification (like a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password.

Recognizing and Avoiding Phishing Attempts: Educate yourself about the common signs of phishing. Be wary of suspicious links, emails, or messages that ask for your personal information.

Conclusion

Being the victim of a Facebook hack, especially when your email and phone are changed, can be alarming. However, by following the right steps and enhancing your account’s security, you can overcome this challenge and protect yourself from future attacks.

To enhance your digital safety further, consider seeking professional assistance. Nextdoorsec, a reputable cybersecurity firm, offers tailored solutions to safeguard your online presence. 

FAQs

1. Is it possible to get your Facebook account back after being hacked?

Yes, it is possible to recover your Facebook account after it has been hacked. You can use Facebook’s account recovery options, such as confirming your identity through friends or answering security questions.

2. Can you recover your Facebook password without your email and phone number?

Recovering your Facebook password without access to your email or phone number is challenging but not impossible. You can try identifying friends on your account or providing alternative contact information if you have set these options up previously.

3. What happens if a hacker gets your Facebook?

If a hacker gains access to your Facebook, they can misuse your personal information, send messages from your account, and potentially access linked accounts. It’s crucial to act quickly to secure your account.

4. Who can I contact if my Facebook was hacked?

If your Facebook account is compromised, contact Facebook support immediately through their Help Center. They provide specific guidance and steps for compromised accounts.

5. My friend’s Facebook account was hacked, how to recover it?

Advise your friend to visit the Facebook Help Center and use the “Report Compromised Account” feature. Facebook will guide them through steps to regain control of their account.

6. How to recover a hacked Facebook account without email?

To recover a hacked Facebook account without access to your email, use the “Forgot Password” feature and choose an alternative method for account verification, like identifying friends or answering security questions.

7. Facebook account hacked, how to recover?

If your Facebook account is hacked, immediately go to the Facebook Help Center and use the “Report Compromised Account” section. Follow the instructions provided to secure your account and reset your password.