What To Do If Your Facebook or Instagram Account Gets Hacked

Over the past few months, I’ve had multiple people reach out to me in complete panic after their Facebook or Instagram accounts were hacked and they were locked out.

Recently, someone contacted me after losing access to a business account with nearly 500,000 followers!

➡️ Years of building community. Gone.
➡️ Revenue-generating content. Stolen.
➡️ And despite dozens of support tickets to Meta, there’s still no guarantee the account will be recovered…

This scenario isn’t rare. And it’s not just frustrating, it’s unacceptable.

These platforms have become critical for small business owners, creators, and brands who rely on them to run their businesses. Yet, there’s no dependable safety net when something goes wrong.

Here’s the hard truth:

Based on my experience supporting clients with hacked accounts:

• There is no reliable support system for recovering hacked Facebook or Instagram accounts

• Even Meta Verified users don’t always get priority support

• It can take weeks or months (if you’re lucky) to regain access

• Many support cases are closed automatically—without explanation

• You're often forced to start from scratch if Meta can’t (or won’t) help

And as a social media strategist? I’ll be honest, I don’t feel right charging clients for recovery help when I know there’s no guaranteed outcome.

But I can help you be prepared and share steps to take if you find yourself in this situation.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to do if your Facebook or Instagram gets hacked:

1. Report the Hack Immediately

You need to report the issue as soon as possible through Meta’s official channels. Each platform has its own process:

• Facebook: Go to facebook.com/hacked and complete their form

• Instagram:

  • Go to the app → Settings → Help → Report a Problem

  • Or visit Instagram’s hacked account form to report unauthorized access.

2. If You Have a Meta Ads Account, Use the Support Chat

If you’ve ever run Facebook or Instagram ads, you may be eligible to chat with Meta Support.

• Go to Meta Business Help

• Click “Get Started” > Select “Policy & Account Security”

• Select "Chat with a representative" (only available for eligible ad accounts)

PRO TIP: Reps will often say they can’t assist with organic account support, but some will escalate your case or connect you to someone who can. Be persistent.

3. If You’re Meta Verified, Use the Premium Support Channels

Meta Verified users can access email and in-app chat support through:

• Facebook App → Menu → Settings → Meta Verified Support

• Or go to Meta Verified to start a support request

4. Be Persistent

This can be an extremely frustrating and time-consuming process. And unfortunately, support cases often get closed automatically (usually in error or because you didn’t respond within the designated window). Document every interaction (dates, support case IDs, responses).

This helps if you ever need to escalate further and have proof to show history.

What If You Can’t Recover the Account?

Unfortunately, some accounts are never restored. If that happens:

• Secure your connected email + devices (change all passwords, enable 2FA everywhere)

• Notify your audience through other platforms (email list, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc.)

• Create a new account, and explain what happened honestly, loyal followers will return

• Reach out to previous collaborators and ask them to tag your new handle

This is also why I strongly recommend every business has a multi-channel presence and spends time building their email list. Social platforms are borrowed space.

Proactive Tips to Protect Your Social Accounts

Here’s how to prevent hacks before they happen:

• Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for Facebook and Instagram

• Use a unique, strong password (no repeats across platforms!)

• Don’t click suspicious links or grant permissions to third-party apps you don’t recognize

• Regularly review your login activity and connected devices

• Always check the “from” email address to ensure it’s legitimate, and remember: Facebook and Instagram will NEVER send you a Direct Message telling you that your account is in breach or has been hacked. Do not click on this.

Final Thoughts

I wish I could tell you Meta had a better system for hacked accounts, but after a decade in this industry and very little progress with their support system, I don’t have high hopes.

If this happened to you (or someone you know), know that you’re not alone. My hope is that this guide helps you feel more informed and in control during a time that can feel incredibly stressful.

For more tips like this, follow me on Instagram and LinkedIn to stay up to date on the latest social media trends, news and features.