Social media networks like Facebook, Instagram, OnlyFans, and others are treasure troves for hackers looking to steal information, commit fraud, or perpetuate other cybercrimes. If you don’t secure your social media accounts effectively, you may lose them overnight.
When this happens, you will not only be able to connect with friends and families but may also lose your confidential data and personal information. The hacker may even use your account to commit acts that may damage your image. But is social media hacking avoidable?
This post will teach you nine effective steps you can take to secure your social media from hacking. Additionally, you will learn the actions you can take after discovering that your social media has been hacked. Let’s get started!
Eight ways to secure your social media account from hacking
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Always secure your social media with a solid password
Your password is the first line of security for your social media accounts. Using a weak or easy-to-guess password makes it easier for hackers to hijack your account. Thus, it is essential that you secure your social media with a strong and unique password.
Don’t use guessable passwords such as your birthday or spouse’s name. We recommend using passwords that include special characters, uppercase, lowercase, and numbers. Keep in mind that the longer and more complex your password is, the harder it is to crack.
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Enable text or email sign-in notification
Enabling log-in notifications across your social media networks is an effective way to spot suspicious activity and stop a hacking attempt. When enabled, you will receive an email or text alert whenever a suspicious sign-in attempt occurs.
For instance, a notification from OnlyFans helped Amouranth Siragusa stop a hacker who gained access to her account and tried to steal $900,000. When one of the best onlyfans models got this alert, she immediately contacted OnlyFans and was able to recover her account before the hacker stole her OnlyFans revenue.
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Don’t ignore two-factor authentication
Utilizing two-factor authentication (2FA) is another reliable way to protect your social media from unauthorized access. 2FA helps you add another layer of security to your account. This extra line of defense could be a biometric lock or a one-time password.
When you use a 2FA to secure your OnlyFans, Instagram, or other accounts, a hacker won’t be able to log in even if they have access to your password. Like sign-in notifications, you will find these options on the privacy or security page of your social media platform.
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Avoid untrusted links or ads
Sending out harmful links is one of the common ways cybercriminals hack their victims’ accounts. Hackers may use these links to infect your device with malware or steal confidential information such as your password or bank info.
Hence, you should avoid suspicious links or ads that may expose you to hacking. Further, you can enable spam blockers on your device or run untrusted links via link safety checking sites before clicking on them.
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Use separate passwords across all platforms
One common mistake people make is using the same password across all their accounts, from Google, Snapchat, and Instagram to OnlyFans. Though this option seems viable for those who easily forget their passwords, it may expose you to credential-stuffing attacks.
For example, if you use the same password across the board, a hacker with access to your Snapchat password will be able to access your Google, OnlyFans, Facebook, and other accounts.
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Be careful with third-party apps
If you use third-party applications to manage your social media, ensure you read their fine print before connecting them to your account. Specifically, check the permissions they have to your profiles.
In addition, verify the legitimacy of each app before giving them access to your account. We strongly advise that you revoke access to your account if you don’t trust any third-party app you are using.
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Don’t access your social media with untrusted devices
Sometimes, our devices are inaccessible, and using an untrusted device or connection becomes the only option. In such situations, we recommend not signing into your account if you are not confident that the device or network is protected.
However, when using these untrusted devices is unavoidable, you must log out immediately after you are done. Besides this, you can take an additional measure by changing your password once you can access your devices.
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Switch your password regularly
Cybersecurity experts recommend changing your passwords periodically, ideally every three to four months. This way, if your password has been compromised, you won’t be leaving your details in the hands of hackers for long.
That said, there are conditions when it is crucial to switch passwords immediately. For instance, you should quickly modify your password if you have a close call with a cybercriminal.
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Install a reputable antivirus software on your device
If you have some cash, you can take your security to the next level by installing reputable antivirus software on your devices. This software will protect you from malicious attacks, phishing attempts, and more.
However, having an antivirus system in place doesn’t mean you should put your guard down. You should still follow all the tips we listed above.
What to do if your social media accounts are hacked
If hackers have gained unauthorized access to your account, take the following steps to minimize damage and get things back to normal in no time.
- The first step is to report the criminal incident to the social media platform’s support team. Provide proof that you own the account and request they help you recover it.
- Let your audience know that your account has been compromised. This will prevent the hackers from taking advantage of your followers.
- Once you recover your account, review your social media security measures. Plus, put in place additional protection to prevent future hacking.
Bottom Line
Proactively securing your social media accounts is essential to preventing cyber criminals from hacking your account, stealing your information, and using it to perpetuate crime. Taking the measures we listed above will help you protect your account and prevent you from becoming a victim of social media hacking.
