If you recently received an email from Facebook containing an account recovery code, it likely means someone or something tried to access your Facebook account. Getting one of these emails can be alarming, but don’t panic. Here’s what it means and what you can do about it.
What is a Facebook account recovery code email?
A Facebook account recovery code email is an automated email sent by Facebook when someone attempts to access or reset your account password. It contains a 6-digit code that can be used to help verify your identity and regain access to your account.
The email will come from [email protected] and have a subject line like “Recover your Facebook account.” The body of the email will tell you that the code is to help you recover or regain access to your account. It also cautions you not to share the code with anyone.
Why did I get a Facebook account recovery code email?
There are a few common reasons you may receive a Facebook account recovery email with a code:
- You requested a login code yourself because you forgot your password or got locked out of your account.
- Someone else tried to access your account by resetting the password.
- A hacker or malicious program attempted to break into your account.
- Facebook’s automated security systems detected suspicious activity on your account.
In most cases, these emails are triggered when someone or something attempts to reset or recover access to your Facebook password. Facebook generates and sends the code email automatically in response to these password reset attempts to protect your account.
I didn’t request a login code. What should I do?
If you receive an unexpected Facebook account recovery email that you didn’t request yourself, it’s possible that someone else is trying to get into your account. Here are some steps to take:
- Don’t click on any links in the email. Go directly to the Facebook website or app.
- Change your Facebook password immediately. Make sure it’s strong and unique.
- Turn on login approvals/two-factor authentication if you haven’t already.
- Check where the login attempt originated from in your security settings. Look for any unfamiliar locations.
- Scan your computer for malware that could be stealing passwords.
- Be cautious of any other suspicious emails, links or activity.
Taking these steps will help secure your account and prevent any unauthorized access. If you see further suspicious activity, report it to Facebook.
Should I use the code to log back into Facebook?
Only use the 6-digit account recovery code if you requested the password reset yourself and need to regain access to your account. The code allows you to log back in without your current password.
If you didn’t initiate the password reset, do not use the code. This will give the hacker/attacker access to your account. Instead, take the security steps outlined above.
How long do I have to use the account recovery code?
Facebook account recovery codes expire after a short period of time, usually an hour or less. This prevents them from being useful to an attacker for very long. If your code stops working, you can request a new one from Facebook to regain access to your account.
Does using the code reset my password?
Entering the account recovery code into Facebook will log you into your account, but it does not automatically reset your password. You will still need to go in and create a new password yourself.
Once logged in, go to your Facebook settings and change your password. Make it long, strong, and something you don’t use on any other sites. This will secure your account going forward.
How can I increase my Facebook security?
To better protect your Facebook account after receiving a recovery code email, here are some security tips:
- Turn on login approvals/two-factor authentication.
- Don’t use your Facebook password on other sites.
- Create a strong password using a mix of letters, numbers and symbols.
- Be cautious of phishing emails and links.
- Only log into Facebook from trusted devices.
- Monitor your login locations for anything suspicious.
- Use a password manager to keep track of unique, complex passwords.
Should I be worried about future hacking attempts?
While it’s understandable to feel worried after getting an unexpected Facebook account recovery email, taking the right security precautions significantly reduces the chances of being hacked in the future. Enable two-factor authentication, use strong unique passwords, and be alert to phishing attempts.
If your account was compromised due to malware or a third-party breach, updating your software and passwords for other accounts can help protect you going forward. Continuing to monitor your Facebook activity can also give you peace of mind.
Can I find out where the login attempt originated?
Yes, Facebook provides information on where recent login attempts on your account originated from. To see this:
- Go to your Facebook settings
- Click on Security and Login
- Select Where You’re Logged In
This will show you details on the most recent locations and devices your account was accessed from. Look for any logins from unfamiliar places, which could indicate unauthorized access.
Should I contact Facebook about a suspicious email?
If you receive a questionable account recovery email that you think could be a phishing attempt, you can forward it to [email protected]. Facebook security staff reviews reported emails to improve Facebook’s phishing detection.
You can also report suspicious emails or posts within Facebook by clicking the three dots in the top right corner and selecting “Find Support or Report Post.”
I’m locked out of my account. What now?
If you’re completely locked out of your Facebook account because you don’t have your password or recovery code, you have a few options:
- Reset your password if you can still access your email or phone number on file.
- Use your backup codes if you have them printed or saved separately.
- Submit ID to Facebook to regain access.
- Have friends report your profile as hacked to trigger a review.
Without access to your email, number or backup codes, providing ID to Facebook is the standard way to fully recover your account access. This proves you are the legitimate account owner.
What happens if I ignore the code email?
If you take no action after receiving a Facebook account recovery email, a few things could happen:
- The code expires after a short period of time and becomes useless.
- You may get locked out of your account if a hacker uses the code to access it.
- You may get back into your account on your own by resetting your password.
- The suspicious activity might continue and trigger more emails.
While the code eventually expires, it’s best to take proactive steps to secure your account when receiving such an email. Change your password, enable two-factor authentication, and watch for any further suspicious activity.
Should I click links in a Facebook recovery email?
No, you should never click on links in an unexpected Facebook account recovery or password reset email. These types of emails are commonly used for phishing attacks.
Instead of clicking any links, manually log into Facebook through your browser or app. This way you can avoid inadvertently giving your login info to scammers.
Legitimate Facebook emails will never ask for your password or other sensitive information. Be wary of emails that look like they came from Facebook but have odd links or requests.
Can I find out who requested the recovery email?
Unfortunately Facebook account recovery emails do not provide information on who or what triggered it. The emails are automatically generated when suspicious activity is detected.
You can check your login history in your Facebook account security settings to see recent locations and browsers. This may help identify any suspicious logins not made by you. But there is no way to find out specific details on who or what initiated the password reset attempt that generated the code email.
Conclusion
Receiving a Facebook account recovery email and code can be concerning, but these automated messages are sent to protect your account when suspicious activity is detected. Don’t panic, but take sensible steps to secure your account like updating your password and enabling two-factor authentication. With proper precautions, you can rest easy knowing your account is safe from compromise.