How to Recover Hacked Facebook Account

Facebook remains one of the most widely used social platforms globally, connecting billions of users for communication, business, and personal expression. However, with its massive user base comes increased targeting by cybercriminals. A hacked Facebook account can lead to identity theft, financial loss, reputational damage, and unauthorized access to linked services. Whether your account is sending spam messages, posting malicious links, or has been locked entirely, recovering it quickly is essential to protect your digital identity and personal data.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every critical step to recover a hacked Facebook account from immediate actions to long-term security hardening. Youll learn how to identify signs of compromise, use Facebooks official recovery tools, restore access without passwords, and implement robust defenses to prevent future breaches. This is not a generic list of tips. Its a battle-tested, step-by-step protocol used by cybersecurity professionals and digital safety advocates to reclaim control after a breach.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Your Account Has Been Hacked

Before initiating recovery, verify that your account is genuinely compromised. Sometimes, suspicious activity stems from legitimate sources such as a friend using your device or a phishing email mimicking Facebook. Look for these definitive signs:

• Messages or posts you didnt write appear on your timeline or in your inbox
• Your profile picture or cover photo changed without your knowledge
• Youre logged out and cant sign back in
• Friends report receiving strange messages from your account
• You receive an email from Facebook about a login from an unfamiliar device or location
• Two-factor authentication (2FA) has been disabled

If any of these are true, your account has likely been breached. Do not attempt to log in repeatedly this may trigger further security locks or alert the hacker to your attempts.

Step 2: Report the Compromise to Facebook Immediately

Facebook provides a dedicated recovery path for compromised accounts. Go to https://www.facebook.com/hacked in a secure browser (preferably on a device not used by the hacker).

On this page, click My Account Is Compromised. Facebook will ask you to enter your email address, phone number, or username associated with the account. Enter the correct credentials and click Continue.

If you cant remember your login details, click I Dont Remember My Login Information. Facebook will prompt you to enter your full name and any email or phone number youve ever used with the account. Use the most recent or commonly used contact information.

After submission, Facebook will send a security code to your registered email or phone number. If the hacker changed your contact details, proceed to Step 3.

Step 3: Use Trusted Contacts or Email Recovery

If the hacker changed your email or phone number, Facebooks Trusted Contacts feature becomes vital. If you previously set up Trusted Contacts (under Settings > Security and Login > Trusted Contacts), you can use them to regain access.

On the hacked account recovery page, select Recover with Trusted Contacts. Facebook will send a recovery code to each of your designated contacts. Contact them directly via another communication channel (e.g., text, call, or another social platform) and ask them to forward you the code.

If you never set up Trusted Contacts, try the I Cant Access My Email or Phone option. Youll be asked to provide additional identifying information:

• Your full name as it appears on Facebook
• Your date of birth
• Names of friends you interact with frequently
• Previous passwords youve used
• Details about recent posts, photos, or events

Answer honestly and accurately. Facebooks system cross-references your responses with your account history to verify ownership. This step may take up to 48 hours for review.

Step 4: Reset Your Password via Email or SMS

Once Facebook confirms your identity, youll receive an email or SMS with a link to reset your password. Click the link and create a new, strong password immediately.

A strong password should:

• Be at least 12 characters long
• Include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols
• Avoid dictionary words, names, birthdays, or common patterns (e.g., Password123)
• Be unique to Facebook never reuse passwords from other sites

Use a password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password to generate and store your new password securely. Never write it down on paper or save it in an unencrypted document.

Step 5: Re-enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

After resetting your password, immediately enable two-factor authentication. This adds a second layer of defense even if someone obtains your password, they cannot log in without your phone or authentication app.

Go to Settings > Security and Login > Use two-factor authentication. Choose either:

• Authentication App: Use Google Authenticator, Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator to generate time-based codes
• Text Message (SMS): Receive codes via phone less secure than apps but still effective

For maximum security, use an authentication app. SMS can be intercepted via SIM-swapping attacks. Once enabled, save your backup codes in a secure location (e.g., printed and stored in a safe or encrypted digital vault).

Step 6: Review Login Activity and Log Out of Unknown Devices

Go to Settings > Security and Login > Where Youre Logged In. Here, Facebook displays all active sessions including devices, locations, and last activity times.

Look for unfamiliar devices, IP addresses, or geographic locations. Click the three dots next to any suspicious session and select Log Out. Confirm you want to log out of all other sessions if youre unsure.

Also, check for any devices you no longer own or use such as an old laptop or a shared computer. Log out of them all. This ensures the hacker cannot regain access through a lingering session.

Step 7: Scan for Malware on Your Devices

Account compromise often stems from malware keyloggers, spyware, or browser hijackers installed on your computer or phone. Even if youve reset your password, malware can capture it again.

Run a full system scan using trusted antivirus software:

• Windows: Use Windows Defender or Malwarebytes
• Mac: Use Malwarebytes for Mac or Sophos
• Android: Use Bitdefender or Avast Mobile Security
• iOS: Use built-in security updates and avoid sideloading apps

Additionally, clear your browser cache, cookies, and saved passwords. Reinstall your browser if you suspect deep compromise. Avoid using public or shared computers to access Facebook until youre certain your devices are clean.

Step 8: Check Connected Apps and Third-Party Permissions

Many hackers gain access not by stealing passwords, but by exploiting third-party apps with excessive permissions. Go to Settings > Apps and Websites > Your Apps and Websites.

Review every app listed. Remove any you dont recognize or havent used in over six months. Common culprits include quiz apps, games, profile enhancers, and fake Facebook tools.

Click Remove on each suspicious app. After removal, click Edit next to How Apps Use Your Info and disable access to your posts, friends list, and email address for any remaining apps.

Only allow apps from reputable developers with clear privacy policies. Never grant publish to timeline or access your friends permissions unless absolutely necessary.

Step 9: Notify Your Friends and Monitor for Scams

Once you regain control, inform your friends and followers that your account was compromised. Post a brief, clear message:

My account was recently hacked. If you received any strange messages, links, or requests from me in the past 48 hours, please ignore them. I did not send them. Ive secured my account now.

Encourage them to report any further suspicious messages from your account. Hackers often use compromised accounts to spread phishing links or fake giveaways. Your alert can prevent others from falling victim.

Step 10: Monitor Your Account for Recurrence

Recovery doesnt end with regaining access. Monitor your account closely for the next 30 days:

• Check login activity weekly
• Review your posts and messages daily
• Watch for changes to your email, phone, or password
• Enable Facebooks Login Alerts to receive notifications for unrecognized logins

If you notice anything unusual, repeat the recovery process immediately. Repeat breaches often occur because the initial infection source wasnt fully eliminated.

Best Practices

Use Unique Passwords Across All Platforms

One of the most common causes of social media breaches is password reuse. If you use the same password for Facebook, your email, bank, or work portal, a breach on one site can expose all of them. Use a different, complex password for every account. Password managers make this simple and secure.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication Everywhere

Never skip 2FA. Its the single most effective way to prevent unauthorized access. Even if your password is stolen, 2FA blocks the attacker. Choose app-based authentication over SMS when possible.

Regularly Update Your Software

Outdated operating systems, browsers, and apps contain known vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates on all your devices. Hackers exploit these flaws to install malware or steal credentials silently.

Be Wary of Phishing Links and Fake Login Pages

Phishing attacks trick users into entering their Facebook credentials on fake websites that look identical to the real one. Always check the URL before logging in:

• Legitimate Facebook login: https://www.facebook.com/login
• Fake phishing site: https://faceb00k-login.com or https://facebook.secure-login.net

Look for the padlock icon and verify the domain name. Never click login links in unsolicited emails or messages type facebook.com directly into your browser.

Limit Personal Information Shared Publicly

Attackers use publicly available data to guess passwords or answer security questions. Avoid posting your birthdate, pets name, high school, or mothers maiden name on your profile. These are common answers to security questions.

Review Privacy Settings Quarterly

Go to Settings > Privacy and ensure your profile is set to Friends Only for posts, photos, and contact information. Disable Allow search engines outside of Facebook to link to your profile. Limit who can send you friend requests only accept requests from people you know personally.

Use a Dedicated Email for Social Media

Create a separate email address (e.g., facebook@yourdomain.com) solely for social media logins. This isolates your primary email from potential breaches and reduces the risk of cascading account compromise.

Disable Automatic Login and Save Passwords

Never enable Remember Me or Keep me logged in on shared or public devices. Disable browser password saving for Facebook. Use a password manager instead its encrypted and requires a master password to unlock.

Set Up Account Notifications

In Settings > Security and Login, turn on notifications for:

• Logins from unrecognized devices
• Password changes
• Two-factor authentication changes
• New app connections

These alerts give you real-time awareness of suspicious behavior, allowing you to respond within minutes.

Tools and Resources

Facebooks Official Security Tools

Facebook provides several built-in tools to help users secure their accounts:

• Security Checkup: Found under Settings > Security and Login. It guides you through password updates, 2FA, trusted contacts, and app permissions.
• Login Alerts: Notifies you via email or SMS when someone logs in from a new device.
• Trusted Contacts: Lets you designate 35 friends who can help you recover your account if locked out.
• Two-Factor Authentication: Supports both authentication apps and SMS codes.
• Account Access Reports: Shows recent login activity, including location and device type.

Third-Party Security Tools

Enhance your protection with these trusted tools:

• Bitwarden: Open-source, end-to-end encrypted password manager. Free tier available.
• Authy: Two-factor authentication app with cloud backup (unlike Google Authenticator).
• Have I Been Pwned: Free tool to check if your email or password has appeared in known data breaches. Visit https://haveibeenpwned.com.
• Malwarebytes: Scans and removes malware from Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
• 1Password: Premium password manager with secure sharing and emergency access features.

Educational Resources

Stay informed with these authoritative sources:

• Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) Surveillance Self-Defense: https://ssd.eff.org Comprehensive guides on digital privacy and security.
• National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA): https://staysafeonline.org Free resources for individuals and families.
• Facebook Help Center Security: https://www.facebook.com/help/security Official documentation and troubleshooting.

Browser Extensions for Protection

Install these browser extensions to block phishing and malicious sites:

• uBlock Origin: Blocks ads, trackers, and malicious scripts.
• HTTPS Everywhere: Forces secure connections on websites that support them.
• Facebook Container (Firefox only): Isolates Facebook activity in a separate browsing container to prevent cross-site tracking.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Phishing Email Trap

Emma, a small business owner, received an email that appeared to be from Facebook: Your account will be suspended unless you verify your details. The email included a link to a fake login page. Emma entered her credentials, and within minutes, her account was compromised. The hacker posted scam messages to her 2,000+ friends, promoting fake cryptocurrency giveaways.

Emma used the Facebook hacked account page, selected I dont remember my login, and answered security questions based on her old posts and friends names. After 12 hours, Facebook restored access. She reset her password, enabled 2FA with Authy, removed all third-party apps, and notified her followers. She now uses a password manager and never clicks links in unsolicited emails.

Example 2: The Shared Device Breach

David let his roommate use his laptop to watch a movie. Unbeknownst to him, the roommate installed a keylogger. Two weeks later, David couldnt log into Facebook. His profile picture had changed, and his friends reported receiving messages asking for Bitcoin.

David ran a Malwarebytes scan, found the keylogger, and removed it. He then used Facebooks Trusted Contacts feature he had previously designated three friends as trusted contacts. He called them, asked for the recovery codes, and regained access. He changed his password, revoked all active sessions, and set up login alerts. He now uses a separate device for social media and never shares his login credentials.

Example 3: The SIM-Swap Attack

Jasons Facebook account was hacked after a criminal impersonated him at his mobile carrier and transferred his phone number to a new SIM card. With control of his number, the hacker received 2FA codes and changed his password. Jason received no notifications his phone was inactive.

He contacted Facebook via the hacked account page and used the I cant access my email or phone option. He provided his full name, birthdate, past passwords, and the names of his closest friends. After 36 hours, Facebook verified his identity and restored access. Jason immediately switched to app-based 2FA and contacted his carrier to lock his account with a PIN. He now uses a Google Voice number for 2FA and keeps his real number private.

Example 4: The Third-Party App Exploit

Lisa used a popular Facebook Profile Enhancer app that asked for access to her photos, posts, and friends list. The app was malicious. It harvested her login credentials and sold them on the dark web. Her account was used to spam 500+ people with fake job offers.

When Lisa noticed the spam, she immediately went to Settings > Apps and Websites and removed the app. She then reset her password, enabled 2FA, and reviewed her login activity. She discovered two unknown devices one in Nigeria and one in Russia and logged them out. She now only installs apps from verified developers and reviews permissions before granting access.

FAQs

Can I recover my Facebook account without an email or phone number?

Yes. Facebook allows recovery through Trusted Contacts or by verifying your identity using personal details like your full name, date of birth, friends names, and past posts. This process may take up to 48 hours but is effective if you provide accurate information.

How long does it take to recover a hacked Facebook account?

Recovery time varies. If you can access your email or phone, it takes minutes. If you must use identity verification, it can take 24 to 72 hours. Facebook processes most requests within 24 hours if all details are correct.

Will Facebook delete my account if its hacked?

No. Facebook does not delete accounts due to hacking. They only disable accounts that violate their policies. If your account is compromised, Facebook will help you regain access they do not punish victims.

What if I cant remember any of my old passwords?

Thats fine. Facebooks recovery system doesnt require you to remember old passwords. It relies on verified identity signals friends names, past posts, email addresses, and device history. Answer the questions honestly and thoroughly.

Can I prevent hacking by using a VPN?

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address, which helps protect against public Wi-Fi snooping. However, it does not prevent phishing, malware, or password theft. Use a VPN for privacy, but rely on 2FA and strong passwords for account security.

Is it safe to use Facebooks Forgot Password feature if I suspect a hack?

Only use it if youre certain the hacker hasnt changed your email or phone. If you suspect they have, skip Forgot Password and go directly to the hacked account page at https://www.facebook.com/hacked. This bypasses the compromised recovery options.

What should I do if my Facebook account is being used to scam my friends?

Immediately report the account as hacked using Facebooks official recovery tool. Then, post a public message on your timeline (if possible) or contact your friends directly via another channel to warn them. Do not engage with the scam messages simply report and block them.

Can hackers access my messages even after I recover my account?

Yes, if they had access before you regained control. Once you log out all sessions and change your password, they can no longer access new messages. However, any messages sent or received while they had access remain visible to them. Consider this a potential data leak avoid sharing sensitive information on Facebook.

Should I report the hacker to authorities?

If the hack involved financial fraud, identity theft, or threats, report it to your local cybercrime unit or national cybersecurity agency (e.g., IC3 in the U.S.). Provide them with screenshots of suspicious activity and your recovery timeline. Facebook also has a reporting system for malicious actors use it.

Can I recover my account if it was permanently disabled?

If Facebook disabled your account for violating policies (not due to hacking), you can appeal through their Help Center. If it was hacked and then disabled as a result, use the hacked account page Facebook will review your case and restore access if you prove ownership.

Conclusion

Recovering a hacked Facebook account is not just about resetting a password its about reclaiming your digital identity, restoring trust with your network, and fortifying your defenses against future attacks. The steps outlined in this guide are not theoretical; they are the same protocols used by cybersecurity experts to respond to real-world breaches.

The key to success lies in speed, precision, and thoroughness. Acting quickly prevents the hacker from causing further damage. Following each step from reporting the breach to scanning your devices ensures no vulnerability is left unaddressed. And adopting the best practices outlined here transforms you from a victim into a resilient digital citizen.

Remember: no platform is immune to hacking. Facebooks security features are powerful, but they are only as effective as your vigilance. Enable two-factor authentication, use unique passwords, review app permissions, and stay skeptical of unsolicited links. Your account is more than a profile its a gateway to your personal life, relationships, and financial data.

By implementing these strategies, you not only recover from a hack you prevent the next one. Stay informed, stay cautious, and take control of your digital presence. Your online safety is your responsibility and with the right knowledge, youre more than prepared to defend it.