Social Media And Email Hacking Reports Rise As Scammers Trick Users

People across the country have recorded a massive increase in social media and email account hacks in the past year. Action Fraud’s newest data shows 35,434 cases in 2024, up from 22,530 in 2023.

Statistics from Action Fraud show a pattern of hacked profiles. The most frequent targets are social media and email, where criminals often take over accounts to advertise bogus tickets or investment deals. Officials have flagged that a stolen username and password can lead to large losses, especially if the same login details are reused on many sites.

Accounts are sometimes hijacked through phishing, where messages trick people into giving away secret information. Another frequent trick occurs when criminals impersonate a friend and request a text code that unlocks another person’s account. Once inside, the intruder can pose as the owner, pushing scams and tricking contacts into sending money.

David Agranovich, Security Policy Director at Meta, said, “Scammers are relentless and continuously evolving their tactics to try and evade detection, which is why we’re constantly working on new ways to keep people safe while keeping bad actors out.”

How Does 2-Step Verification Help?

2-step checks add an extra wall of security against intruders. Even if they crack your password, they still need a code or prompt from your phone or email. Action Fraud and technology firms stress that this simple measure can stop wrongdoing in its tracks.

Agranovich added, “Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is one crucial example of how people can add an extra layer of security to their Meta accounts, to help reduce the risk of scammers accessing your accounts. We’ve also started rolling out facial recognition technology to help people get back into compromised or hacked accounts and are always working on new ways to stay ahead of scammers.”

Officials recommend turning on these checks for any online portal that stores private or banking details. They also remind everyone to avoid reusing passwords. A good tip is to combine three random words into a longer phrase, making it tough for crooks to guess.

Reports show that many criminals depend on stolen login details leaked from data breaches. One slip-up on an untrusted site can spread your password across the internet. Strong credentials and 2-step checks reduce these risks and keep your social media and email safer.

Can Fraud Happen More Than Once?

The National Crime Agency has warned that fraud is the most recorded wrongdoing in England and Wales. Their research uncovered that 11% of targets experience theft or scam attempts more than once. Many do not report smaller losses, pointing to a bigger scale than official figures reveal.

These crimes aren’t just for personal bank accounts… Businesses often worry about harming their reputation by announcing these crimes, so the true number of corporate victims is likely under-reported. The NCA states that criminals adapt to protective measures and find new ways to trick people. This can range from romance scams to fake phone calls.

Cost-of-living pressures might also push more individuals to engage with suspect schemes. Criminals thrive on fear and quick decisions, so simple caution makes a difference. One slip can open the door to account hacks and huge financial damage.

Where Can People Turn for Help?

Anyone who spots a hacking attempt or loses money is urged to contact Action Fraud. In Scotland, Police Scotland is the place to call. Banks should also be alerted without delay if financial details have been passed on to criminals.

Phishing emails can be forwarded to [email protected]. Texts or calls that look suspicious can be flagged by sending them to 7726. This helps investigators hunt down the criminals behind these schemes and block them from striking again.

Adam Mercer, Deputy Director of Action Fraud, said, “As social media and email account hacking remains the most reported cybercrime this year, this Action Fraud campaign marks a critical issue for everyone who has online accounts. That’s why we’re raising awareness of the ways people can protect themselves online.”

Staying watchful is the best defence. Lock down accounts with strong passwords and 2-step checks whenever possible. If something feels wrong, it is safer to hang up or ignore suspicious links rather than risk your personal data.

Mercer added, “Follow Stop! Think Fraud advice and protect yourself online: enable 2-Step Verification on each online account you have – this will help prove your identity and stop fraudsters trying to steal or access your valuable information. Secure your social media and email accounts by ensuring each password is strong and uses three random words. Remember to never share your passwords with anyone else.”