In today’s hyper-connected world, social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), TikTok, and LinkedIn have become integral to our daily lives—used for communication, business, marketing, and even payments. Unfortunately, this also makes them prime targets for cybercriminals. Account takeovers and data breaches are on the rise, with hackers using increasingly sophisticated tactics to gain access.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how to secure your Facebook and other social media accounts, offer real-world hacking examples, and provide step-by-step solutions to protect your digital identity.
🚨 Real-Time Examples of Social Media Hacks
1. Facebook Business Account Hijack
Case: In early 2024, a Kenyan digital marketer lost access to their Facebook Business Manager account after clicking a fake Facebook policy update email. The hacker ran ads worth thousands of shillings using the victim’s credit card.
What happened?
The hacker used phishing to trick the victim into logging into a fake Facebook page, collecting their credentials and gaining full access.
2. Instagram Influencer Lockout
Case: A beauty influencer with over 50,000 followers was locked out of her Instagram account after receiving a DM about a “brand collaboration.” When she clicked the link and entered her login details, her account was stolen within minutes.
What happened?
Another phishing trick—this time using direct messages. The account was then used to scam her followers.
3. WhatsApp Social Engineering Scam
Case: A user received a message from a friend saying, “Can I borrow your number for a verification code?” Moments after sending the code, they were logged out of WhatsApp.
What happened?
A SIM swap or verification scam where attackers take control of your WhatsApp by tricking you into sharing your login verification code.
🛡️ Step-by-Step Guide to Secure Your Social Media Accounts
✅ 1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Why it helps: Adds an extra layer of security. Even if a hacker gets your password, they still need your phone or authentication app.
How to do it (Facebook Example):
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Go to Settings & Privacy > Security and Login
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Click on Two-Factor Authentication
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Choose Authentication App or Text Message (SMS)
Recommended Tool: Use Google Authenticator, Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator instead of SMS when possible.
✅ 2. Avoid Phishing Links
Tip: Never click suspicious links in emails, DMs, or comments, especially those claiming urgent account issues, giveaways, or brand deals.
How to verify:
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Check the sender’s email address. Facebook official emails come from
@facebookmail.com -
Hover over links to preview the URL before clicking.
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When in doubt, go directly to the platform’s website or app.
✅ 3. Regularly Review Active Sessions
Platforms like Facebook and Instagram allow you to view all devices currently logged into your account.
How to check on Facebook:
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Settings & Privacy > Security and Login
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Under Where You’re Logged In, end any unfamiliar sessions.
✅ 4. Use a Strong, Unique Password for Each Account
Avoid: Using names, birthdates, or “123456.” Hackers can crack weak passwords within seconds.
Best practices:
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Use a password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or LastPass
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Change your passwords every 3–6 months
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Don’t reuse passwords across platforms
✅ 5. Beware of Third-Party Apps
Many games, quizzes, or login-based apps request excessive access to your account.
Solution:
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On Facebook:
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Go to Settings > Apps and Websites
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Remove any apps you don’t use or recognize.
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✅ 6. Set Up Trusted Contacts
In case you’re locked out of your Facebook account, trusted contacts can help you regain access.
Steps:
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Go to Security and Login
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Click Choose 3 to 5 friends to contact if you are locked out
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Select close friends you trust
✅ 7. Keep Your Devices and Apps Updated
Outdated software has known vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.
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Turn on automatic updates for your phone and apps
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Avoid using public Wi-Fi without a VPN
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Install antivirus software on your PC or Android device
🧠 Bonus: What To Do If You’re Hacked
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Act Quickly:
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Change your password immediately
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Log out of all other sessions
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Report the Hack:
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Facebook: facebook.com/hacked
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Instagram: Go to Settings > Help > Report a Problem
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Warn Your Contacts:
Let friends know not to click suspicious links or respond to messages from your compromised account. -
Recover Access:
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Use your recovery email or phone number
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Follow on-screen steps for account recovery
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🧩 Final Thoughts
Social media hacking is not just a tech problem—it’s a personal and financial threat. Whether you’re a student, business owner, or influencer, protecting your digital presence is your responsibility. By applying the steps above and staying alert, you’ll dramatically reduce your risk of becoming the next victim.
🔐 Stay secure. Stay smart. Stay social.
