Social media hacking

Theft of access credentials and hacking of a social media account

Social networks such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, etc. are a highly attractive target for cybercriminals, as the users are very active and very quick to respond. If fraudsters have stolen your login credentials and gained access to your social media account, they can create entries and view data. In this case, the fraudsters have a number of options: for example, they can post adverts on the account. But they can also publish lies about you and blackmail you. Often, however, the attackers will use your identity to target your friends in social networks.

Specific measures

If you still have access, the first thing to do is to try and change your password.
If you no longer have access, try to reset the password using the "Reset password" function.
If this does not work, you will have to contact the relevant provider. Many providers offer a procedure for regaining control of the account. This requires you to answer a series of questions to prove that you really are the account owner. It does not always work the first time. If the reset does not work the first time, we recommend trying again a few times.

Preventive measures

Use a different password for each individual online service.
Protect access to your internet services with two-factor authentication (one-time password, text message token, etc.) whenever available
Passwords should be at least 12 characters long and contain lower and upper case letters, numbers and special characters.

Effects and risks

Financial loss
Wasted time and energy
Reputational damage

Further Information

You will find further information on our website:
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