How and Why Hackers Hack Facebook Accounts
The world has reached a tipping point, and it's not surprising why hackers target social networking sites like Facebook. Whether an individual or a business entity, your Facebook account contains something worthwhile that any cyber thief could wish to take advantage of. But how and why do they hack into Facebook accounts? In this article, we will take a detailed look at how hacking is done, their motive behind doing so, and more importantly, ways you can self-protect.
How Hackers Gain Access to Facebook Accounts
Phishing Scams
One of the most common methods is through phishing, whereby hackers send fake emails, or messages pretending to be from Facebook. In those messages, there is more than likely a link that leads you to the fake login page. By entering your credentials, the hacker captures your username and password.
Weak Passwords
Poor password choices, or using the same password for all platforms, is a serious risk. Hackers can “brute force attack” using automated tools that try millions of password combinations until they crack it.
Third-Party Apps
Whenever you go to any third-party apps, or sites using your login from the main site, that is Facebook; it gives those applications certain permissions regarding your account. Hackers want to exploit this process in such apps and try to get unauthorized access to your account.
Malware
Cybercriminals normally take over accounts on Facebook by using malware. Once it's set up on your device, by either clicking a malicious link or downloading an infected file, the malware captures your keystrokes or can even take over your system, and give total control of your account to the hackers.
Social Engineering
Hackers can trick you into revealing personal information by using a technique, called “Social Engineering”. For example, they would send e-mails with messages pretending to be your friend or some fake giveaways offering a prize that requires your Facebook login.
Why Hackers Want Your Facebook Account
Financial Gain
They may use it to scam your friends or followers by sending them fake messages or asking for money, or just sell your account to buyers on the dark web since social media accounts tend to be good commodities.
Identity Theft
Your Facebook profile possesses a lot of personal information: your full name, date of birth, address, family, and even your phone number or email at times. This information can be used by cybercriminals for identity theft to open bank accounts or credit cards in your name.
Spread Malware or Phishing Links
Hackers hijack your account and post malicious links to your timeline or send phishing messages to all of your friends. These usually lead to websites that install malware or try to steal the login credentials of your contacts.
Political or Social Manipulation
Some hackers seek to influence public opinion or spread disinformation through such accounts, particularly during election seasons or periods of great social change. Hacked accounts can be used to spread phony information or to join controversial groups to damage your online reputation.
Spamming and Advertising
Once in control of the account, it is used to advertise fake products or services. These posts will be spread through your network, masquerading as you, and will trick your contacts into buying certain items.
How to Protect Your Facebook Account
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Adding a secondary layer of security means that even when the hacker does get your password, it's harder for them to get into your account. You can enable two-factor authentication on Facebook via SMS or an authenticator app, like Bitwarden, or Google Authenticator. DO NOT USE SMS!!!
Use a Strong, Unique Password
Let your password be long, complicated, and unique for only Facebook. Wherever possible, avoid using the same password for several accounts, and if necessary, use a password manager, like Bitwarden, to store your login credentials.
App Permissions Review
From time to time, review the third-party apps that connect to your Facebook account. Remove any you do not recognize or no longer use, to reduce the likelihood of being exploited through an insecure app.
Be Wary of Phishing Attempts
Always be apprehensive while clicking on links or giving your credentials through messages or emails. Sometimes, the source of these emails appears to be a trusted friend or a person from a trustworthy circle. Double-check the URL on any login page to make sure it's the official Facebook website.
Regularly Check Your Account
Check your Facebook account for suspicious activities in the Security Settings: look for unknown devices and strange locations. Facebook has a security feature that shows you active sessions.
Conclusion
For hackers, Facebook accounts have become a goldmine, with new ways discovered every day to access them. From personal data to money and influence, the list of reasons is endless, and once inside an account, hackers could wreak havoc. Once you understand how this cycle goes around with hackers, some basic security practices will reduce the chances of getting hacked and keep your social media presence safe.