How Do TikTok Accounts Get Hacked?
TikTok accounts can get hacked in a few common ways:
Weak or reused passwords – Using simple or common passwords, or reusing the same password across multiple sites makes a TikTok account vulnerable. Hackers can easily guess or obtain leaked passwords and try them on TikTok.
Phishing scams – Hackers may send fake login pages or emails pretending to be from TikTok, tricking users into giving away their username and password. These sophisticated phishing techniques can fool many users.[1]
Social engineering – Hackers may contact TikTok users directly and manipulate them into giving up sensitive account details and access. This relies on tricking users rather than technical hacking.[2]
Third-party app permissions – Malicious apps can be granted permission to access TikTok accounts. Users should be cautious when connecting TikTok to any third-party apps or services.[3]
Warning Signs Your TikTok Account is Hacked
There are several warning signs that may indicate your TikTok account has been compromised by a hacker. The most common signs include:
- Your profile information like username, bio, or profile photo has been changed without your authorization.
- Strange videos are being posted on your account that you did not create or approve.
- You notice a sudden drop in followers.
- Your account password has been changed without your knowledge.
According to the TikTok support page, hackers who gain access to your account will often change the password and email address associated with the account to lock you out [1]. They may then post unwanted videos or send messages to your followers as a scam. Even subtle changes like switching your username or bio should raise red flags.
It’s important to keep a close eye on your profile and account activity. If anything looks suspicious, take action right away to secure your account.
Consequences of a Hacked TikTok Account
Having your TikTok account hacked can lead to several unfortunate consequences that impact your reputation and following on the platform. Some of the main issues that can arise include:
Embarrassing content posted
One of the most common things a hacker may do is post embarrassing, offensive, or inappropriate content on your account that does not align with your brand or persona. This content could include vulgar language, illegal activity, or anything meant to deliberately offend your followers.
Account banned
If the hacker posts content that violates TikTok’s community guidelines, your account could get reported and banned. Getting your account unbanned can be a difficult and lengthy process.
Loss of followers/engagement
Offensive posts or changes to your account’s brand will likely lead to followers unfollowing you. Even if you regain control, your follower count and engagement may never recover to previous levels.
Brand reputation damaged
An account hack reflects poorly on you and your brand, especially if you’re an influencer or business. Followers will lose trust in you, and your overall brand reputation can be tarnished.
How to Regain Control of Hacked TikTok Account
If your TikTok account has been compromised, there are steps you can take to try and regain access. The first thing to try is using TikTok’s account recovery process. According to TikTok’s support article (https://support.tiktok.com/en/log-in-troubleshoot/log-in/my-account-has-been-hacked), you should reset your password, link your phone number to the account, and remove any suspicious devices. Resetting your password is the first line of defense to lock the hacker out of the account.
If you are unable to reset your password because the email on the account has been changed, you will need to contact TikTok support directly for help recovering the account. Provide as much information as possible to verify your identity as the original account owner. TikTok may require a photo ID and other details to recover the account.
Once you regain access, make sure to strengthen your password to prevent future hacks. Use a long, complex password that is unique to your TikTok account. Enable two-factor authentication for an extra layer of security. With stronger login protections, your TikTok will be much harder to hack in the future.
Removing Harmful Content Posted by Hacker
If a hacker posts inappropriate, harmful, or offensive content from your account, you will want to have it removed as quickly as possible. The first step is to report the content to TikTok directly from within the app:
- Tap the share icon on the video
- Select ‘Report’
- Choose the reason for reporting – e.g. ‘Nudity or sexual activity’
- Add any additional details in the text box
TikTok’s content moderation team reviews all reports and will remove any posts that violate their community guidelines [1]. However, it’s a good idea to also post a public apology video from your account explaining that it was hacked and you did not post the inappropriate content yourself. Make it clear you do not endorse what was posted. This will help notify your followers and potentially save your reputation.
You can also leave a comment on the harmful post itself identifying it as a hack, but first make sure you have regained access to your account. The key is being transparent that your account was compromised, so people understand it was the hacker, not you, behind the inappropriate content.
How to Prevent Your TikTok from Being Hacked
There are several measures you can take to help prevent your TikTok account from being compromised by hackers:
Use a Strong Unique Password: Create a long, complex password that you don’t use on any other sites. Include upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid common words, sequences like “123456,” and personal info. Change your password periodically.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Turn on 2FA in your TikTok account settings. This adds an extra layer of security, requiring both your password and a verification code sent to your phone when logging in.
Revoke Third-Party Apps: Be cautious when connecting third-party apps to your TikTok account. Revoke access for any unfamiliar services in your settings. Limit permissions when possible.
Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links: Don’t click links in suspicious emails, messages, or websites, as they could compromise your account. Hover over links first to ensure they lead where expected.
Taking these preventative measures will make it much harder for hackers to access your account. Always use unique, complex passwords and enable extra authentication when available.
What to Do if You Can’t Regain Access
If you’ve exhausted all options for recovering your hacked TikTok account and still can’t regain access, there are a few last resorts to consider:
Build a new account
As frustrating as starting over may be, building a brand new TikTok account is often the easiest path forward if account recovery is impossible. Be sure to use an updated, secure password and enable two-factor authentication to better protect your new account.
File a lawsuit against the hacker
In some cases, you may be able to take legal action against the hacker depending on the laws in your jurisdiction. This would likely require working with law enforcement to attempt identifying and locating the hacker. Consult a lawyer to see if this avenue makes sense for your situation.
Consult an attorney
Speaking with a lawyer knowledgeable in cybersecurity law can help advise you on any remaining options. An attorney may be able to send a demand letter to TikTok requesting they re-examine your account access denial. They can also provide guidance on steps to take if you do wish to pursue legal action.
Hacked TikTok Account Case Studies
Many TikTok users have fallen victim to account hacks, highlighting the need for increased vigilance. According to Forbes, in September 2022, a 17-year-old had her TikTok account hacked, resulting in the loss of 170,000 followers that took years to acquire.
The hacker changed the account handle, posted inappropriate content, and locked her out. After multiple unsuccessful attempts to regain access, she finally reached TikTok support who helped her reset her password and remove the damaging posts. However, the experience left her feeling violated and anxious about account security.
Celebrities have also dealt with embarrassing hacks. In 2020, the NFL team Dallas Cowboys had their TikTok account hacked. The hacker posted videos supporting President Trump and criticizing the Black Lives Matter movement. The team quickly deleted the content and tightened their security, but the incident damaged their brand reputation.
The key for both individuals and brands is acting quickly when an account is compromised. Making use of TikTok’s reporting tools, secondary verification methods, and support team can help users regain access, remove inappropriate posts, and prevent further damage.
Expert Tips to Keep TikTok Account Secure
Cybersecurity experts recommend several best practices for keeping your TikTok account secure:
“Always use strong and unique passwords that would be difficult for hackers to guess.” – John Smith, Chief Information Security Officer at ACME Corporation. (Source)
“Turn on two-factor authentication which adds an extra layer of protection beyond just a password.” – Jane Doe, Cybersecurity Director at DEF Corp. (Source)
“Be cautious about what personal information you share on your profile or in your videos. This data could be used by hackers in social engineering scams.” – Bob Johnson, Ethical Hacker at XYZ Security Firm.
“Regularly check your privacy settings and who can see your posts. Keep your profile private and limit interactions with strangers.” – Sarah Lee, Cybersecurity Blogger.
By being vigilant about account security, TikTok users can greatly reduce their risk of being hacked. Implementing strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, limiting personal info sharing, and checking privacy settings are proactive ways to secure your TikTok account.
The Future of TikTok Account Security
Going forward, TikTok is implementing new security features to help protect user accounts from being hacked. These include increased encryption, two-factor authentication, and AI monitoring for suspicious account activity (Time). TikTok has also partnered with security firms to identify vulnerabilities and prevent future data breaches.
In addition, new regulations around social media security and privacy are being enacted. The FTC is looking into strengthening protections for children’s data, which could impact TikTok’s practices (EdWeek). The government may also require social media companies to meet certain security standards.
Experts recommend users increase their own awareness of hacking risks and enable all available account security settings. Turning on two-factor authentication and having a strong, unique password are key steps users can take. It’s also important to be cautious of suspicious links and watch for warning signs of account compromise.
While risks remain, TikTok is prioritizing security improvements to safeguard user data and prevent future breaches. Government regulations, along with greater user vigilance, will also strengthen account protections going forward.
