Facebook is one of the most hacked social media networking websites. Hackers often use phishing methods to deceive their victims. This method is done by sending a message to a Facebook contact that looks as if it came from the real account owner. Hackers use your trust to get you to click on a link and get your data. Then, they use your data to commit fraud.
You can do various things after accidentally opening a hacked Facebook message. If you can still log in to your account, change your password as soon as possible. If the attempt fails, try regaining access to your Facebook account via two-step verification. Third, Report the possible hack to Facebook.
What Happens if You Open a Hacked Message on Facebook?
Scam messages from cybercriminals usually come with a link. The link usually has a message such as “Is this you?” etc. Moreover, they are sometimes captions about trending news along with the link. It’s always something that makes you want to click the link they provide.
The link will take you to a new page or a website that looks familiar, such as Facebook. Here, you’ll find a request to fill in personal data, including username and password. But actually, this is a fake site. The hacker traps you here and records your credentials. After that, the hacker will be able to access your Facebook account and change the password.
When hackers change your password, you will not be able to access your Facebook. However, in some cases, they may not change your password. This will let you access your Facebook without realizing hackers have infiltrated your account. At the same time, hackers will be sending the same scam message to all your Facebook contacts. They may even imitate your conversational style to sound more convincing. Hackers will send them the same link and hope they are duped in the same way as you.
Alternatively, scam messages may be automatically sent to your Facebook contacts after clicking the link. Clicking on the link is the same as activating a code to send the same message to all your contacts.
Can You Get a Virus by Opening a Message on Messenger?
Yes, apart from the possibility of hackers being able to access your Facebook account, you may get your computer infected with malware. Malware can cause more harm to the overall data on your computer. The link with the scam message usually contains a virus that targets your device. These viruses are not just limited to computers and can also attack your mobile or tablets.
Opening the link will lead to installing malicious programs created by hackers. These programs can steal personal data such as passwords and bank account details. Moreover, they can also record all your computer activities, greatly infringing on your privacy.
The program will automatically install other malicious programs immediately if not discovered by an antivirus. Furthermore, it may result in money loss as hackers start using your credit cards. Your data and information also become vulnerable.
One of the first signs that a virus has infected your device is that it becomes slower. Secondly, you may see new applications that you do not recognize. Pop-up ads may start appearing out of nowhere. If you find unfamiliar applications, scan your device with antivirus software immediately.
Your browser may also become infected. The most common sign of a virus infestation is strange pops up and inappropriate ads. Secondly, you may see unfamiliar changes to the browser homepage. Your browser will also start loading pages slower than usual.
Apart from stealing data, viruses can also damage programs on your computer. Moreover, they can destroy files and even damage the entire system. If you suspect that a virus has infected your computer, perform a full antivirus scan on your computer system. On completion, remove any detected viruses or infected programs and files. As a last resort, restore your computer to factory settings.
What Should You Do if You Open a Hacked Facebook Message?
Change your password as soon as you realize that you have opened a scam link. If you have entered your email and password, there is a possibility that your account is compromised. After successfully logging into the account, check your recent Facebook activity.
Go to settings, then to security, and click login. Check the last device you used to log in. Here you can also see the history of your login date and time. If you see something unfamiliar, it means your account is hacked. Select log out of all sessions, and immediately reset your password. Make sure to always create a strong password with special characters, numbers, etc. Avoid weak and easy-to-guess passwords such as birthdays and numbers in sequence.
You can also check email notifications from Facebook. Facebook usually sends a notification if there is a suspicious login from a foreign device or location. If you receive a suspicious email, please report it to [email protected].
If you can’t log back into your account, your Facebook has been hacked, and the password changed. You can recover your account by using the device you used to access Facebook before. Go to facebook.com/login/identify, and find your account with the profile name, email, or phone number you used to register or log in. You will receive a verification option before resetting your password, receiving a code via email or SMS.
In addition, you can report hacking to Facebook here. You must fill in the phone number or email you used when creating your Facebook account. However, keep in mind that Facebook usually does not immediately respond to your report. It usually takes about a week for them to resolve the issue.
How to Delete Hacked Message in Messenger
Deleting suspicious messages from hackers is a good idea. The process is the same as deleting regular messages on your messenger. Just press the message you want to delete, select More on the bottom right, and click Remove.
Another way hackers infiltrate your account is through app registration via your Facebook account. Many applications ask for your data for registration, and one easy option is to register with a Facebook account. This method is easy and saves time, but it is one of the main ways hackers get into your account.
Once you download an app containing a virus using your Facebook account, you give hackers access to your personal information. However, this does not apply to all apps. You only need to be careful in choosing the apps you download.
How to Prevent Facebook Messenger From Being Hacked
Facebook has a two-factor authentication feature to protect your account from possible hacking. This feature works when Facebook detects login activity from a new device. Facebook will send a code to your email or mobile number, which you must enter to access your account.
In addition, you will also receive an alert if an unfamiliar login occurs. You can enable this feature by going to Security and login settings. Select Use two-factor authentication, then select edit. There you can choose one of the three available security methods.
Another important step you can take is to turn off the stay logged in feature in your browser and mobile app. Although inconvenient, it can be hard for hackers to infiltrate your account. Moreover, always use the Facebook app on your computer or mobile device. If you must use another device, immediately change your password after. Regularly changing your password is key. Also, try not to save passwords on your phone or laptop that may be easily accessible if someone gets their hands on your device. If you lose your mobile device or laptop, someone else might try to access your password. Regularly changing your password will make your old password useless if found by a hacker or criminal.
Summary
Nowadays, hackers have various ways to steal your data, including social media accounts. The most common way is sending scam messages to social media contacts. You could be receiving a message from your Facebook friend whose account may have been hacked.
Apart from phishing links, hackers can also pretend to be you and trick your family and friends into sending money. The easiest way to prevent this is to be careful of the links you click. Don’t press play on a suspicious video or open an unknown photo, even if it’s from your Facebook contacts.
Pay attention to the tone or behavior, especially if the sender is someone you rarely chat with. This is especially true if they ask for your personal information out of the blue. Also, remember to notify your Facebook contacts if you suspect your account has been hacked. By only being cautious, you can stay secure from hacking attempts.
