FACEBOOK is introducing a brand new feature to help people regain access to their hacked accounts.
Compromised accounts are all too common as fraudsters share dodgy links to gain access.
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Hackers then go onto scam your friends and family who believe they’re talking to you.
Regaining access to your account can be a tricky and stressful process, especially as you’ll want to get back in as soon as possible.
But Facebook owner Meta is making the process a lot easier and faster thanks to a new tool.
From today, users will be able to submit a video selfie to prove their identify and regain access.
It uses facial recognition technology to recognise if you’re the rightful account owner.
But the feature is optional, meaning those uncomfortable with taking a selfie can follow the traditional route instead.
“Scams can have a devastating impact on people’s lives, causing not only financial loss, but also emotional distress and a loss of trust in online platforms,” said Mark Tierney, CEO of Stop Scams UK.
“By leveraging advanced technology, Meta is taking a crucial step towards protecting users from these harmful activities.
“Every sector has a role to play in creating a safer digital environment through sharing and collaborating with each other.
“Consumers can help too by reporting suspicious activities.
“Together we can work towards reducing the prevalence of scams and ensuring a more secure online experience for everyone.”
Public figures can also use the same technology for Facebook’s so-called celeb bait protection.
In this instance, the facial recognition technology detects and stops cyber crooks from misusing famous people’s faces to steal from unsuspecting users.
The problem has become worse with AI deepfake images used dupe members of the public.
One of the worst cases recently – which didn’t take place on Facebook – saw a 53-year-old woman conned out of out of nearly £700,000 by a Brad Pitt impersonator.
TIPS TO AVOID BEING HACKED ON FACEBOOK
By Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun
A dreaded Facebook account hack can happen to anyone – but there are ways to keep yourself safe.
Sadly, it is the most common query I get from people.
First, the basics – your password is key.
I know it’s tempting but you should never re-use the same password for different sites. If one site has a data breach then hackers can use the same details to attempt logging in with the same details everywhere else.
Passwords don’t need to be complicated. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) recommends a combination of three random words.
Facebook also recommends setting up two factor authentication, which asks you for a special login code each time someone tries to access your account from an unknown device.
You should avoid accepting friend requests from people you don’t know too.
But ultimately, keep a look out for suspicious links even if they appear to come from a friend or company.
These tend to come in the form of things like free giveaways a friend claims to have taken up – this usually means their account has already been compromised.
Not been locked out of your Facebook account but still feel like you’ve been hacked? Check out our guide for the key signs here.
