My Facebook Account Was Hacked: How to Recover It

Facebook helps users recover hacked accounts by providing clear signs to recognize unauthorized access, such as unfamiliar login locations, password changes, strange messages, and new friend requests from unknown individuals. If suspicious activity is detected and access is still possible, users should immediately change their password, review and remove unknown devices, check recent activity, and enable two-factor authentication for added security. For those locked out, Facebook offers account recovery tools, allowing users to reset their password via email or phone, or use trusted contacts if previously set up. When these methods fail, submitting an official report and providing identification through Facebook’s Help Center can assist with account recovery. To prevent future hacks, Facebook recommends using strong, unique passwords, enabling login alerts and 2FA, avoiding phishing links, and regularly reviewing security settings. If all else fails, contacting Facebook Support remains a reliable last resort.

How to Know If Your Facebook Account Was Hacked

The first step is to spot clear signs of unauthorized access. Recognizing these red flags early helps you act quickly and secure your account.

Signs of a Hacked Facebook Account

If you notice any of the following, your account may have been compromised:

Login alerts from unknown devices or locations
Password changed without your consent
Unfamiliar posts, comments, or private messages
Friends reporting strange messages from your profile
New friends added you don’t recognize

Unusual Login Locations or Devices

Facebook tracks where your account is logged in. If you see unfamiliar devices or locations, it’s a strong indicator your account has been hacked. You can check this under Settings → Security and Login → Where You’re Logged In.

Posts or Messages You Didn’t Send

One of the most common signs is activity you didn’t perform, such as:

Spam posts appearing on your timeline
Private messages sent without your knowledge
Invitations to strange groups or pages

If any of these occur, change your password immediately and follow recovery steps.

Email or Password Changed Without Your Consent

If your recovery email or password was changed, hackers may have locked you out. In such cases, you’ll need to use Facebook’s account recovery tools or rely on trusted contacts to regain access.

Step-by-Step Recovery if You Still Have Access

If you can still log in to your Facebook account after noticing suspicious activity, act fast. Taking these steps helps secure your profile and prevent further unauthorized access.

Change Your Password Immediately

The first thing you should do is update your password to block the hacker from continuing to access your account. Follow these simple steps:

Go to Settings & Privacy
Click on Security and Login
Select Change Password
Choose a strong, unique password
Save your changes

Make sure the new password is different from your old one and avoid using the same password across multiple platforms.

Check and Remove Unknown Devices

Next, review where your account is currently logged in:

Go to Security and Login
Under “Where You’re Logged In,” examine the devices and locations
If you spot anything unfamiliar, click “Log Out” for that session

This helps block unauthorized users instantly.

Review Recent Activity and Settings

Look through your recent activity to identify anything suspicious:

Posts you didn’t create
Groups or pages you didn’t follow
Messages you didn’t send

If you find unusual activity, delete the unwanted content and adjust your privacy settings as needed.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication

To further protect your account, set up two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code sent to your phone when logging in from a new device. You can activate this under:

Settings & Privacy → Security and Login → Two-Factor Authentication

How to Recover a Facebook Account You’re Locked Out Of

If you’ve been completely locked out of your Facebook account due to hacking, don’t panic. Facebook provides recovery methods to help you regain access.

Use Facebook’s Account Recovery Tool

Start by visiting the official Facebook Account Recovery page. Here, you can:

Enter your phone number or email address
Follow the on-screen instructions
Verify your identity to proceed with recovery

This is the quickest and most reliable way to begin the account recovery process.

Reset Your Password via Email or Phone

If your email address or phone number is still linked to your account:

Go to the Facebook login page
Click on “Forgotten password?”
Enter your registered email or phone number
Follow the reset instructions sent to your device

Choose a strong new password to ensure your account is secure after regaining access.

Recover Using Trusted Contacts (If Set Up)

If you previously set up trusted contacts:

Go to the recovery page
Click “No longer have access to these?”
Select “Reveal My Trusted Contacts”
Follow the steps to get help from your selected friends

Your trusted contacts can provide you with recovery codes to help you regain access.

What to Do If Recovery Options Don’t Work

If you can’t use email, phone, or trusted contacts, try these alternatives:

Submit an official report via Facebook’s Help Center
Provide identification if requested (such as an ID photo)
Keep trying the recovery tool with any old login details you remember

Persistence is key. Facebook’s system may eventually recognize your login attempts and offer new recovery options.

Strengthen Your Account to Avoid Future Hacks

Securing your Facebook account now can prevent future hacking attempts. Follow these best practices to keep your profile safe.

Set a Strong, Unique Password

Always use a password that combines uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using your name, birthday, or simple sequences like “12345.” Change your password regularly to reduce risks.

Activate Login Alerts and 2FA

Turn on login alerts so you receive notifications whenever your account is accessed from an unfamiliar device. Additionally, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of protection. With 2FA, even if someone gets your password, they won’t easily access your account.

Avoid Phishing Links and Suspicious Apps

Hackers often use fake login pages or malicious apps to steal credentials. Never click suspicious links in emails, messages, or comments. Only download apps from trusted sources and review app permissions regularly.

Regularly Review Security Settings

Facebook provides several security tools to help users stay safe. Check your account settings frequently to:

Remove unknown devices
Review connected apps and websites
Update your recovery email and phone number

Staying proactive not only protects your personal information but also reassures your Facebook followers that your account is secure and trustworthy.

Final Thoughts and When to Contact Facebook Support

Recovering a hacked Facebook account is possible, but prevention is the best protection. Regularly updating your password, using two-factor authentication, and staying alert to suspicious activity can help keep your account safe.