Discovering that your TikTok account has been hacked can be stressful, but acting quickly can help you regain control and prevent further damage. Signs of a compromised account may include unfamiliar devices, unexpected password changes, videos or messages you didn’t create, or login alerts from unknown locations. TikTok recommends taking immediate steps to secure your account if you suspect unauthorized access.
Change Your Password Immediately
Your first step should be changing your TikTok password as soon as possible.
Choose a password that:
- Is unique to TikTok
- Contains uppercase and lowercase letters
- Includes numbers and symbols
- Is difficult for others to guess
Changing your password will log out other devices that are currently signed into your account, helping remove unauthorized users.
Review Connected Devices
TikTok allows you to see devices that are currently using or have recently accessed your account.
To check connected devices:
- Open TikTok.
- Go to Profile.
- Tap Menu (☰).
- Select Settings and Privacy.
- Tap Security & Permissions.
- Select Manage Devices.
If you find a device you don’t recognize, remove it immediately. TikTok also recommends changing your password after removing unfamiliar devices.
Enable Two-Step Verification
Two-step verification adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a verification code when someone attempts to log in from a new or unfamiliar device.
To enable it:
- Open Settings and Privacy.
- Tap Security & Permissions.
- Select 2-Step Verification.
- Choose your verification methods.
- Follow the setup instructions.
This feature can help prevent future unauthorized access even if someone knows your password.
Check Security Alerts
TikTok monitors accounts for suspicious activity and provides security alerts when unusual events occur.
To view your alerts:
- Open Settings and Privacy.
- Tap Security & Permissions.
- Select Security Alerts.
Review any unfamiliar activity and take action if necessary.
Review Your Account Security Checkup
TikTok’s Security Checkup feature gives you an overview of your account’s security status.
You can use it to:
- Review connected devices
- Check security activity
- Verify your email address
- Verify your phone number
- Enable two-step verification
- Add a passkey
Regularly reviewing Security Checkup can help identify and fix security weaknesses.
Secure Your Email Account
If a hacker gained access to your email account, they may be able to reset your TikTok password again.
To protect your email:
- Change your email password
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Review recent login activity
- Remove unfamiliar devices
Securing your email is just as important as securing your TikTok account.
Watch for Phishing Attempts
Many TikTok account compromises begin with phishing scams.
Be cautious if you receive messages asking for:
- Your password
- Verification codes
- Personal information
- Login credentials
TikTok states that it will not ask for your password through messages or emails. Avoid clicking suspicious links and only use official TikTok channels.
Report the Problem to TikTok
If you cannot secure your account or continue experiencing unauthorized access, contact TikTok support.
To report an issue:
- Open TikTok.
- Go to Settings and Privacy.
- Tap Report a Problem.
- Select the relevant issue.
- Follow the instructions provided.
If necessary, you can use the in-app help options to contact TikTok for further assistance.
What If You Can’t Log In?
If you lose access to your account, TikTok offers account recovery options.
Depending on your account setup, you may be able to:
- Recover your account using your email address
- Recover your account using your phone number
- Use TikTok’s friend verification recovery process
TikTok’s recovery tools are designed to help legitimate account owners regain access when login credentials have been compromised.
ALSO READ: Can TikTok detect that I’m using a VPN?
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