Facebook accounts have become wide target of Hackers. Cyber criminals find different ways to hack Facebook accounts. Once a hacker compromised an account, It can be used to impersonate to target others and send out spam or scam messages virally across the platform. Scammers can also data mine these accounts and their network of friends. This information can be used for identity theft or other targeted attacks.
How to Secure Your Facebook Account
Facebook offers a Login Approvals service. Login Approvals is a two-factor authentication feature employed by Facebook. It’s an added layer of security that requires a code to be entered to complete the login process if the device isn’t recognized by Facebook.
To access this setting, click on the down arrow located in the top right hand corner and then click on the ‘Settings’ link. Next, click on the ‘Security’ link located in the left hand column. You can also be taken directly to this screen by clicking here.
Now all you have to do is click the ‘Edit’ link under Login Approvals and set everything up. If you use the Facebook mobile application, then you can also enable ‘Code Generator’ on this screen. Instead of sending you a text message with the secret code, the mobile Facebook application will generate a code for you to use.
You can also print out a list of codes if you know that you aren’t going to have access to your phone. This is great to keep in mind if you are traveling or if your phone dies a lot. Click on the ‘Get Codes’ link in the Login Approvals section.
Two-factor authentication saves your account from hacker. Even if your password hacked, hacker wont be able to login into your account. By activating Two-factor authentication, a hacker not only require your username and password, but to also have access to your mobile device. Be sure to enable this security feature on any other sites that offer it (like Google.)
Note:
- You need to have a mobile phone number listed on your account to turn on login approvals. You can add one to your account when you turn on login approvals.
- If you haven’t named the device you’re using, you’ll be asked to do so when you turn on login approvals. Don’t click the Save this device option if you’re using a computer that other people use (ex: a library computer).
See Also: How to Protect Gmail Account from Hackers with 2 Step Verification