In the digital world where social media has become an integral part of our lives, waking up to find your Facebook account has been hacked can feel like discovering your house keys have been stolen. Your personal space, once safe, is now invaded, and it’s unsettling. If your Facebook account has been compromised and the hacker changed your email and phone number, you’re not alone. This situation can be frustrating, but with the right steps, you can regain control.
Immediate Steps to Take
1. Secure Your Email Account
Before anything else, make sure your email account is secure. Hackers often use the same techniques to access multiple accounts. Change your email password immediately and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if it’s available.
2. Visit the Facebook Help Center
Facebook has a dedicated help center for dealing with hacked accounts. Navigate to Facebook’s Help Center and follow the instructions to report your account as compromised.
3. Use the “Identify” Page
Facebook’s login recovery page is your friend in this situation. Go to facebook.com/login/identify and enter your details. This process will help you regain access by identifying your account, even if the hacker changed the login credentials.
Recovering Your Hacked Account
Step 1: Password Reset
Attempt to reset your password by clicking on “Forgot Password?” on the Facebook login page. If you can still receive emails or messages from one of your recovery options, use that method to reset your password.
Step 2: Reporting the Account
If resetting the password is not feasible, report your account as hacked. On the Facebook Help page, search for “Hacked Account” and follow the prompts to report the issue.
Step 3: Identity Verification
For more severe cases, Facebook might ask for identity verification. Be prepared to submit identification documents, such as a driver’s license or passport, to prove you are the legitimate account owner.
Enhancing Your Security
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security. Once your account is recovered, set up 2FA to prevent future unauthorized access.
Review Linked Apps and Permissions
Check all apps and services linked to your Facebook account. Revoke access to any unfamiliar apps to ensure no additional data leaks occur.
Regularly Update Your Passwords
Make it a habit to change your passwords regularly. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters to create a strong password.
Testimonials and Personal Experiences
Sarah from Alabama: “When my Facebook account got hacked, I was devastated. I followed the steps to secure my email first, then used Facebook’s recovery options. It took a couple of days, but I got my account back!”
James from New York: “Enabling two-factor authentication was a game-changer for me. After recovering my account, I made sure all my social media accounts are secured with 2FA.”
Maintaining Vigilance
Stay informed about the latest phishing scams and hacking techniques. Knowledge is power, and being aware of potential threats can help you safeguard your online presence. Regularly check your account activities for any suspicious behavior.
Table: Quick Recovery Checklist
| Step | Action | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Secure Email | Change your email password and enable 2FA |
| 2 | Visit Help Center | Use Facebook’s Help Center for guidance |
| 3 | Use Identify Page | Recover your account via facebook.com/login/identify |
| 4 | Report Account | Report your account as hacked |
| 5 | Verify Identity | Submit identity proofs if necessary |
| 6 | Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) | Set up 2FA for added security |
By following these steps and remaining vigilant, you can regain control of your hacked Facebook account and protect your personal information from future threats. The journey to digital safety starts with taking informed and proactive measures today.
My Facebook Account Was Hacked and Email and Phone Number Changed
If your Facebook account was hacked, and the email and phone number were changed, take immediate action:
Steps to Recover Your Account:
- Go to Facebook Login Page: Click on “Forgot Password?” and follow the prompts.
- Secure Your Email: Change your email password and enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Report the Hack: Visit the Facebook Help Center to report your account as compromised.
- Verify Identity: Be prepared to submit identification to recover your account.
Protect Yourself
Use Forest VPN to safeguard your online presence and prevent future hacks. With encryption and secure browsing, protect your data from cyber threats.
FAQs: My Facebook Account Is Hacked & Email Changed!
What should I do immediately after discovering my Facebook account has been hacked?
First, secure your email account by changing the password and enabling two-factor authentication. Then, visit the Facebook Help Center to report your account as compromised and follow the recovery options provided.
Can I recover my account if the hacker changed my email and password?
Yes, you can still recover your account. Use the Facebook login recovery page at facebook.com/login/identify to initiate the recovery process, even if the hacker has changed your credentials.
How long does it typically take to regain access to a hacked Facebook account?
The recovery process can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of the situation and whether Facebook requires additional identity verification.
What should I do to prevent future hacks after recovering my account?
After recovering your account, enable two-factor authentication, regularly update your passwords, and review all linked apps and permissions to ensure your account remains secure.
How can I contact Facebook if I need further assistance with a hacked account?
You can reach out to Facebook’s support through their Help Center. For serious issues, you may need to fill out a form to report your login issue, and it typically takes 3-5 days for them to respond.