We recently received a distressing message from Martha of East Millinocket, Maine, concerning her small business’ Facebook page. Martha shared her experience of unauthorized charges on her Facebook account, which resulted in her checking account being drained. She sought advice on how to handle the situation. We understand Martha’s frustration and want to offer guidance on combating unauthorized charges and preventing hacks to Facebook accounts.
Typically, scammers gain access to a person’s Facebook advertising account and make unauthorized changes to payment settings. They increase the advertising limit and run ads that may or may not be related to the actual business. The scammers’ goal is to drain the victim’s checking account by charging large amounts for these unauthorized ads.
To combat unauthorized charges, there are steps you can take. First, report the issue to Facebook by following these steps:
1. Log into your Facebook account on your desktop computer.
2. Click your profile icon in the top right corner.
3. Select “Settings & Privacy” and then “Settings.”
4. In the sidebar on the left, click “Personal details.”
5. Scroll down and select “Payments.”
6. Click on the hacked payment account (Ads or Meta).
7. Click “Activity” and select the unauthorized transaction.
8. Click “Get Help with this Payment” and choose “Live Chat with Us” or “Email Us.”
9. Follow the on-screen instructions to report the unauthorized charge.
In addition, contact your bank or credit card company to inform them about the unauthorized purchase. They can assist you in taking the necessary steps to recover your funds.
To prevent unauthorized access to your Facebook account, consider implementing the following security measures:
1. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): This requires approval for login on a separate device, providing an extra layer of security. Follow these steps to enable 2FA:
– Log into your Facebook account on a desktop computer.
– Click your profile icon in the top right corner.
– Select “Settings & Privacy” and then “Settings.”
– In the sidebar on the left, click “Password and security.”
– Scroll down and click “Two-factor authentication.”
– Choose the method you want to use (SMS texting, Authentication app, or Security keys).
– Follow the steps for setting up the chosen method.
2. Set up login alerts: This will notify you if anyone logs into your account from an unauthorized device. Follow these steps to set up login alerts:
– Log into your Facebook account on a desktop computer.
– Click your profile icon in the top right corner.
– Select “Settings & Privacy” and then “Settings.”
– In the sidebar on the left, click “Password and security.”
– Scroll down and click “Login alerts.”
– Choose your account and how you want to be alerted (in-app notifications, email, or both).
Furthermore, using a strong and unique password for your Facebook account is crucial. Avoid reusing passwords and consider using a password manager to securely store and generate complex passwords. A password manager will also keep track of all your passwords and automatically fill them in when logging into accounts.
If you have experienced unauthorized charges on your Facebook account, you may consider filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through their website or Consumer Response Center. Although the FTC does not resolve individual complaints, they use consumer complaints to investigate patterns of fraudulent activity and take legal action against scammers.
By implementing these security measures and promptly reporting unauthorized charges, you can better protect yourself against scams and unauthorized access to your accounts. Stay vigilant and keep your online presence safe.
For more cybersecurity alerts and tips, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report newsletter at CyberGuy.com/newsletter.
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