Discovering that your Facebook account has been hacked is a stressful experience, especially if the hacker has changed your email, phone number, and password, locking you out completely. However, don’t panic—there are steps you can take to regain control of your account and secure it from future attacks. Here’s a guide to help you through the process.

1. Act Quickly

Time is of the essence when dealing with a hacked account. The longer the hacker has access, the more damage they can do, such as posting inappropriate content, scamming your friends, or accessing linked accounts. Start the recovery process immediately.

2. Use Facebook’s Account Recovery Tool

Facebook provides a dedicated Account Recovery Page for situations like this. Here’s how to use it:

1. Go to Facebook.com/hacked.

2. Click on “My Account Is Compromised.”

3. Enter your email address, phone number, or username associated with the account.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to verify your identity.

Facebook will guide you through steps to reset your password and regain access. If the hacker changed your email and phone number, you may need to provide additional proof of identity, such as a government-issued ID.

3. Secure Your Email Account

Since your email is often the gateway to your Facebook account, ensure your email hasn’t been compromised as well:

• Change your email password immediately.

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.

• Check for any suspicious forwarding rules or changes made by the hacker.

4. Report the Hack to Facebook

If you’re unable to recover your account through the recovery tool, report the issue directly to Facebook:

1. Visit Facebook.com/login/identify.

2. Follow the prompts to report that your account has been hacked.

3. Provide as much information as possible, including old passwords, previous email addresses, and any other details that can help verify your identity.

5. Warn Your Friends and Contacts

Once you regain access, inform your friends and contacts about the hack. Hackers often use compromised accounts to send phishing messages or scam links. Letting others know can prevent them from falling victim to malicious activities.

6. Strengthen Your Account Security

After recovering your account, take steps to prevent future hacks:

• Change your password: Use a strong, unique password that you don’t use elsewhere.

• Enable two-factor authentication: This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code from your phone or authentication app when logging in.

• Review active sessions: Go to your Facebook settings and log out of any unfamiliar devices or locations.

• Update your contact information: Add a secure email and phone number to your account.

7. Be Vigilant

Hackers often target accounts with weak passwords or those linked to data breaches. Regularly monitor your account for suspicious activity and avoid clicking on suspicious links or sharing your login details.

Final Thoughts

Having your Facebook account hacked can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, you can regain control and secure your account. Remember, prevention is key—always use strong passwords, enable 2FA, and stay alert to potential threats. By acting quickly and following Facebook’s recovery process, you can minimize the damage and protect your online presence.

Stay safe online!