How to secure your Facebook account

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Securing your Facebook account involves enabling two-factor authentication, reviewing your privacy settings, and regularly updating your password. This ensures that your personal information remains protected from unauthorized access.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before securing your Facebook account, ensure you have the following:
  • •A valid Facebook account with access to your email or phone number linked to it.
  • •A device (computer or smartphone) with internet access.
  • •Updated web browser or Facebook app.
  • •Backup codes for two-factor authentication if enabled.

Method 1: Enable Two-Factor Authentication

This method is essential for adding an extra layer of security to your Facebook account. It requires a second form of verification when logging in.
  • •Step 1: Log into your Facebook account and click the downward arrow in the top right corner.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings & Privacy' and then 'Settings'.
  • •Step 3: In the left sidebar, click on 'Security and Login'.
  • •Step 4: Scroll down to 'Two-Factor Authentication' and click 'Edit'.
  • •Step 5: Choose your preferred method (Text Message or Authentication App) and follow the prompts to set it up.
  • •Step 6: After setup, Facebook will prompt you to enter a code sent to your phone or generated by the app to verify the process.
  • •Step 7: To verify it worked, log out and log back in to see if the two-factor authentication prompt appears.
  • •Step 8: If it doesn't work, ensure your phone number is correct and that you have a stable internet connection.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 specific steps may include slight interface changes.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Start menu and select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to 'Accounts' and then 'Access work or school'.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users may find the settings in a different layout.
  • •Step 1: Right-click on the Start menu and select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Accounts' and then 'Your info'.

Method 2: Review Privacy Settings

Adjusting your privacy settings is crucial for controlling who can see your information and posts.
  • •Step 1: Log into Facebook and click the downward arrow in the top right corner.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings & Privacy' and then 'Settings'.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Privacy' in the left sidebar.
  • •Step 4: Review each section, including 'Your Activity', 'How People Find and Contact You', and 'Your Profile'.
  • •Step 5: Adjust settings to 'Friends' or 'Only Me' for maximum privacy.
  • •Step 6: To verify changes, check your profile as a visitor by clicking on 'View As' under your profile picture.
  • •Step 7: If you encounter issues, ensure you are logged into the correct account.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while securing your Facebook account, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Code not received' - Solution: Check your phone number in 'Settings' and ensure you have network coverage.
  • •Issue: 'Two-factor authentication not working' - Fix: Try using a different authentication app or ensure the app is up to date.
  • •Problem: 'Privacy settings not saving' - Workaround: Clear your browser cache or try a different browser.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Facebook security with these expert tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + I - Opens the developer tools for inspecting elements on the page.
  • •Command line: N/A - Facebook does not support command line operations.
  • •Hidden feature: Trusted Contacts - Set up trusted contacts in 'Security and Login' for account recovery.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regularly review your security settings and stay informed about new security features Facebook offers.