How I Secured My Facebook Account After Login Attempts
This post documents a real security incident that happened to me in late 2025 and the exact steps I took to secure my Facebook account after repeated login attempts from outside the U.S. During the last week of December 2025, I started getting Facebook security notifications that immediately caught my attention. Someone was trying to log into my account from outside the United States. One attempt showed Kenya. Another showed Mexico. Facebook blocked both attempts, but seeing those alerts made it clear this was not something to ignore.
My Facebook account is more than personal. It is connected to two business pages and several groups I manage. If that account were ever taken over, the impact would go far beyond my profile. That reality made me nervous, but it also pushed me to act quickly and correctly.
Why These Login Alerts Raised Concern
Facebook blocks suspicious login attempts every day, but multiple attempts from different countries in a short time frame usually mean someone already has your email address and is actively trying to get in.
I decided to treat this like a real security issue instead of assuming Facebook would handle everything for me.
The First Step Was a Stronger Password
The first thing I did was change my Facebook password. I used my Apple device to generate a secure password, which created a long, unique password that I do not reuse anywhere else.
Strong passwords are important, but experience has taught me that passwords alone are no longer enough to protect online accounts.
Why I Turned Off SMS Two-Factor Codes
After changing my password, I reviewed my two-factor authentication settings. While researching current security guidance using artificial intelligence tools such as Perplexity, I learned why SMS-based verification is no longer considered the safest option.
SIM-swapping attacks allow criminals to take over a phone number by convincing a carrier to move it to another device. If your phone number is public, which is common for business owners, this creates a real risk.
Once I understood that risk, I removed SMS verification from my Facebook account.
Switching to an Authenticator App
I replaced SMS verification with the Google Authenticator app. This method generates a new six-digit code every 30 seconds and is stored only on my device.
Even if someone were to learn my Facebook password, they would still be blocked without access to my authenticator app. This added a second layer of protection that cannot be intercepted remotely.
How AI Helped Me Make Better Security Choices
I used artificial intelligence as a research tool to compare authentication methods, understand modern account takeover techniques, and identify which advice was outdated.
This experience reinforced what I have seen repeatedly while helping others with technology issues. Scams and threats evolve, and staying informed matters.
Why This Matters for Business Pages and Groups
Accounts connected to business pages or community groups are especially valuable targets. If an account is taken over, scammers can post fake content, send messages in your name, or damage trust that took years to build.
That is why layered security is critical.
- Use a unique password for each account
- Enable app-based two-factor authentication
- Avoid SMS verification when possible
- Review login alerts right away
After Making These Security Changes
Since making these updates, I have not received any additional suspicious login alerts. That tells me the added layers are working.
More importantly, I feel confident knowing my personal account, business pages, and groups are better protected going forward.
FAQs About Facebook Security
Can my Facebook account still be hacked with two-factor authentication on?
Yes, it is possible, but it is much harder. Two-factor authentication blocks the vast majority of attacks by adding an extra security step. Most hackers rely on stolen passwords, and 2FA stops those attempts immediately.
How do hackers get around two-factor authentication?
The most common method is phishing, where fake emails or websites trick people into entering both their password and the security code. Another risk is SMS-based codes, which can be intercepted through phone number takeovers. Malware on infected devices can also pose a risk in rare cases.
Is text message (SMS) two-factor authentication safe?
SMS is better than no protection at all, but it is not the strongest option. Text messages can sometimes be intercepted or redirected. App-based authenticators are safer because they do not rely on your phone number.
What is the safest type of two-factor authentication to use?
Authenticator apps and biometric logins like Face ID or fingerprint authentication are among the safest options. Hardware security keys offer even stronger protection for important accounts.
Does two-factor authentication really help?
Yes. According to Microsoft, multi-factor authentication blocks 99.9% of account takeover attempts. When combined with a strong, unique password, it is one of the most effective ways to protect your online accounts.
What else should I do to keep my Facebook account secure?
Always review login alerts, store backup recovery codes offline, avoid clicking unexpected links, and keep your devices updated. If something feels off, it usually is.