General Question

JLeslie's avatar

I think someone is trying to hack me, what can I do?

Asked by JLeslie (65742points) April 13th, 2024

I clicked on a link that I now know was probably a virus link. It sent me to a page to log into facebook, I did not log in. Then I got pop-ups warning me I might have a virus, which took me a while to figure out how to get rid of them.

Now, I am getting 6 digit codes to my phone saying it is for instagram. I don’t have an instagram account that I remember. Maybe someone can check for me?

I went into facebook to change my password.

Is the virus maybe trying to get all of my passwords for everything not just facebook and instagram?

What should I do?

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3 Answers

kevbo1's avatar

Generally, you should use strong passwords and two-factor authentication.

Lightlyseared's avatar

Instagram, being owned by facebook, uses your Facebook password by default. I’m guessing that someone has your Facebook password and is trying to log into Instagram using the same password. The text message you’re getting sounds like a two factor authentication check from Instagram. This is may be because you have enabled it on facebook or possibly Instagram do automatically it for new accounts. You need both the password and 6 digit code to log in. Without it they shouldn’t be able to access your Instagram account or make an account and pretend to be you.

I can’t remember if Facebook signs you out on all devices after a password change but it might be worth doing that just in case it doesn’t.

If you use the same password for your email account as Facebook you need to change that as well plus every password for everything else just to be on the safe side.

If you haven’t already would recommend you activate 2 factor authentication (2FA) for any account that offers it. to add an extra layer of security.

Blackwater_Park's avatar

Someone may be trying to get you to click on the links being sent to your phone or they may be trying open an Instagram account under your facebook name. Change that facebook login ASAP. This is probably not a virus but if you’re not using an antivirus program and safe web browser I’d do that ASAP as well. Then a VPN. Be wary of any links sent to your phone through messaging apps in the next few weeks.

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