Scam warning
Fake Account Recovery Help
After your account is hacked, strangers comment or message you offering to “recover” it, or to hack into someone else's account, for a fee. They are scammers too.
Also called: Hacker for hire scam, Account recovery scam, Recovery expert scam
The one thing to remember
Only use the real help pages of Facebook, Instagram or Google. Nobody else can get your account back for you.
How it happens
- You post that your account was hacked, or ask for help.
- Strangers reply saying a “hacker” or “expert” got their account back.
- These accounts all work together to look believable.
- The “expert” asks for payment upfront, often in crypto or gift cards, and then disappears.
Warning signs
- Strangers recommending a “hacker” or “recovery expert”.
- Promises of quick fixes.
- Payment upfront, especially in crypto or gift cards.
- Lots of similar comments from accounts with few followers.
What to do
- Use only the official help: facebook.com/hacked or Instagram's “Need more help?” on the login page.
- Don't reply to strangers offering help.
- Ask a trusted family member or friend to help you through the official steps.
What it looks like
Real examples of this scam. Yours may look a little different.
Last checked: October 31, 2026