Multiple Catastrophic Facebook Hacks Put Over 120 Million Users at Risk

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Multiple Catastrophic Facebook Hacks Put Over 120 Million Users at Risk

Between September and November of 2018, hackers obtained personal information from over 120 million Facebook Users. This recent major attack involved hackers selling 81 thousand users' private messages online. While these security breaches can be catastrophic and scary, they are also easily preventable. This recent attack was only able to be carried out because users downloaded malicious software that tracked their Facebook activity. In this article, we will show you how to keep your Facebook account safe from hackers.

1. Protect your password

This one seems pretty straightforward, but still, many people leave themselves exposed. There are several key steps you should follow to keep your password safe. First, don't use your facebook password on any other sites. If you use the same password for multiple websites and hackers get ahold of one of your accounts then they can use the same password to access all of them. Second, use a complex password. Many common passwords are easy for hackers to guess. A secure password should be at least 12 characters and contain a mix of capital letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Third, this one kind of goes without saying, never share your password or post it anywhere online.

You can change your Facebook password anytime here: https://www.facebook.com/settings?tab=account&section=password&view

2. Use two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication is a security feature that protects your account in addition to having a password. It works by sending a text to your  mobile phone whenever you log in to Facebook from a new device. This text contains a code which you will be required to input in addition to just your password. This security measure confirms that it is actually you logging in since only you will receive the text.

To enable this feature:

• Go to  Settings --> Security and Login
• Select 'Use two-factor authentication' and click Edit
• Follow the on-screen instructions.

For step-by-step instructions, read this how to article

How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication for Facebook

3. Make sure your email account is secure

To keep your Facebook account safe, it is also imperative that you keep your email account safe. A vulnerable email means a vulnerable Facebook account because if hackers break into your email then they can access your Facebook. You can keep your email safe by doing the previous two steps to your email account.

4. Never download any software with which you are unfamiliar

Downloading certain software or browser extensions can allow hackers to access your personal Facebook information. Only download software from sources that you know are safe.

5. Log out of your Facebook account when using a public computer or a computer you share with others

If you forget to log out, you can use this link to log out remotely: https://www.facebook.com/help/211990645501187?helpref=page_content

That's it!