My Youtube account was hacked [2024] 💥

Updated: November 4, 2024 | by: Martijn Assie, creating websites & shops since 20 years, also Linux-, Wordpress-,
Photoshop- and SEO expert. | NL DE

YouTube is linked to Google's account system. This implies that if your YouTube account is compromised, the hacker might also gain access to your other Google services like Gmail, Google+, and more.

Have you discovered a video on your channel that you don't recognize? Have you noticed that previously published videos have vanished or that details like video titles have been changed? If so, it's highly likely that your YouTube channel has been hacked.

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Index of Solutions

• 1. Update Your Google Password
  Quick Solution: Change your Google password immediately.
• 2. Check Recent Sign-ins
  Quick Solution: Review recent sign-ins for unauthorized access.
• 3. Conduct a Google Security Check
  Quick Solution: Use Google's Security Checkup tool.
• 4. Review Recent Activity
  Quick Solution: Scrutinize your account's recent activities.
• 5. Install Antivirus Software
  Quick Solution: Protect your device with reliable antivirus software.
• 6. Avoid Reusing Passwords
  Quick Solution: Use unique passwords for different accounts.
• 7. Enable Two-Step Verification (2SV)
  Quick Solution: Activate 2SV for added security.
• 8. Log Out from All Devices
  Quick Solution: Log out of all devices to secure your account.
• 9. Monitor Account for Suspicious Activity
  Quick Solution: Keep an eye on any suspicious activities.
• 10. Secure Backup Email and Phone
  Quick Solution: Ensure backup contact methods are secure.
• 11. Recover Your Google Account
  Quick Solution: Use account recovery options if locked out.
• 12. Update Recovery Information
  Quick Solution: Keep your recovery email and phone number up to date.

1. Update Your Google Password

Immediately visit this page to update your Google password. Use a mix of lowercase and uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters like exclamation points or hashtags to create a secure password. It should be at least 8 characters long and avoid common dictionary words.🔒

2. Check Recent Sign-ins

It's crucial to determine whether the hacker targeted your YouTube or Gmail account. If you use Gmail, sign in and scroll to the bottom of the page. Click on the "Details" button in the lower right corner to see a list of recent access sessions. This can help identify any unauthorized access.👀

3. Conduct a Google Security Check

Google offers a straightforward security checkup to detect any unusual changes in your account. Visit your Google account page and select "Get Started" under "Security Checkup" to begin.🔍

4. Review Recent Activity

If you suspect unauthorized access to your account, scrutinize all recent activities, including posted videos and likes. Check for any actions taken under false pretenses. If you discover any suspicious activity, report it to YouTube. Visit this link to review your account activity.

5. Install Antivirus Software

Many hackers use trojan horses to steal passwords from victims' computers. If your computer is infected, changing your password won't help, as the malware will just send the new password to the hackers. It's essential to have reliable antivirus software installed and avoid granting permissions to suspicious programs.

6. Avoid Reusing Passwords

Reusing passwords for different services like Facebook and iCloud compromises your security. Change these passwords immediately and ensure you can still access these accounts. Password reuse is a common tactic for attackers to gain access to multiple accounts.

7. Enable Two-Step Verification (2SV)

To enhance your account security, activate Two-Step Verification for your Google account. With 2SV, Google will request a unique code every time you sign in, adding an extra layer of protection. Here's how to set it up:

1. Go to your Google Account settings by clicking on your profile picture in the top right corner of any Google page and selecting "Manage your Google Account".
2. Click on "Security" in the left-hand menu.
3. Under "Signing in to Google", find "2-Step Verification" and click on it.
4. Click the "Get Started" button.
5. Enter your password to confirm your identity.
6. Choose your verification method. You can receive codes via text message, phone call, or the "Google Authenticator" app. For the Google Authenticator app:
   1. Download the "Google Authenticator" app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
   2. Open the app and follow the instructions to link it to your Google account.
   3. Scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen using the Authenticator app.
   4. Enter the code generated by the app to verify the setup.
7. Once setup is complete, you will receive a code on your chosen method every time you sign in. Enter this code along with your password to access your account.
8. Keep backup codes in a safe place. These can be used if you lose access to your phone.

With 2SV enabled, your account is much more secure!🔐

8. Log Out from All Devices

If your account has been compromised, log out from all devices. This will ensure the hacker is logged out too. To do this:

1. Go to "Google Account" settings by clicking on your profile picture in the top right corner of any Google page and selecting "Manage your Google Account".
2. Click on "Security" in the left-hand menu.
3. Scroll down to "Your devices" and click on "Manage devices" to see all devices that have accessed your account.
4. Click "Sign out" next to each device to log out from all devices.

9. Monitor Account for Suspicious Activity

Keep an eye on your account for any suspicious activities. Regularly check your account activity in your Google account settings. If you notice any strange activities, report them immediately.👀

1. Go to "Google Account" settings by clicking on your profile picture in the top right corner of any Google page and selecting "Manage your Google Account".
2. Click on "Security" in the left-hand menu.
3. Scroll down to "Your devices" and click on "Manage devices" to see all devices that have accessed your account.
4. Check for any unfamiliar devices or activities. If you see something suspicious, click "Don't recognize this device?" and follow the instructions to secure your account.
5. Report any unusual activity directly to Google for further investigation.

10. Secure Backup Email and Phone

Ensure your backup email and phone number are secure. This helps in recovering your account if it's compromised.📞

1. Go to "Google Account" settings by clicking on your profile picture in the top right corner and selecting "Manage your Google Account".
2. Select "Personal info" from the left-hand menu.
3. Scroll down to "Contact info" and check your recovery email and phone number.
4. Click on "Email" or "Phone" to update your recovery information if needed. Make sure this information is accurate and accessible.
5. Save any changes to keep your recovery information up to date.

11. Recover Your Google Account

If you are locked out of your Google account, use the account recovery options to regain access.

1. Go to the "account recovery page".
2. Enter the email address or phone number associated with your account and click "Next".
3. Follow the prompts to verify your identity. This may include entering a verification code sent to your recovery email or phone.
4. If prompted, answer any security questions you set up when you created your account.
5. Once verified, you can reset your password and regain access to your account.

12. Update Recovery Information

Keep your recovery email and phone number up to date. This ensures you can quickly recover your account if needed.📧

1. Go to "Google Account" settings by clicking on your profile picture in the top right corner and selecting "Manage your Google Account".
2. Select "Personal info" from the left-hand menu.
3. Scroll down to "Contact info" and click on "Email" or "Phone" to update your recovery information.
4. Enter your new recovery email or phone number and save the changes.
5. Verify the new contact information by entering the code sent to your new recovery email or phone.

FAQ

How can I tell if my account has been hacked?

Look for unusual activities like unknown videos posted or changes in your settings.

What should I do if I notice suspicious activity?

Immediately change your password, review recent sign-ins, and report the activity to Google.

Is it safe to use the same password for multiple accounts?

No, always use unique passwords for different accounts to enhance security.

How often should I update my passwords?

Update your passwords every few months and whenever you suspect a security breach.

What is Two-Step Verification (2SV)?

2SV adds an extra layer of security by requiring a unique code in addition to your password.

Additional Tips

Conclusion

Securing your Google and YouTube accounts is crucial in today's digital world. By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and protect your personal information. Always stay vigilant and proactive about your online security. Remember, a small step like enabling two-step verification or updating your password can make a big difference. Stay safe online! 😊

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