How to recover a Facebook account | Step-By-Step Guide

How to recover a Facebook account is a question many face when they suddenly lose access to their profile. For many, this social network is the main way to stay in touch with friends, family, and even clients. That’s why acting quickly is essential to avoid losing memories, important conversations, and valuable connections.

There are several ways to regain control, from simple methods such as resetting your password to more complex procedures like sending identity documents for verification. The key is to identify the reason for the loss of access and follow the correct path.

In this guide, you’ll find all the necessary instructions to recover your Facebook account in different scenarios. Whether due to a forgotten password, hacking, blocking, or deactivation, there is always a way to reverse the situation.

How to recover a Facebook account via email or phone number

If you still have access to the email or phone linked to your account, this is the quickest and most reliable method to learn how to recover a Facebook account. The system will send a verification code, allowing you to reset your password immediately.

  1. Go to facebook.com/login/identify.
  2. Enter your registered email or phone number.
  3. Select your account from the list that appears.
  4. Choose to receive the code via SMS or email.
  5. Enter the code you received.
  6. Create a strong new password and finish the process.

Using trusted contacts to recover a Facebook account

This feature is ideal for those who have lost access to both their email and phone but had set up trusted friends beforehand. Few people know about this method, but it can be decisive.

  1. On the login screen, click “Forgot password?”
  2. Select “I don’t have access to these.”
  3. Choose the recovery option with help from trusted contacts.
  4. Enter the names of those friends.
  5. Send them the recovery link.
  6. Receive the codes they generate and enter them in the required field.
  7. Reset your password.

How to recover a Facebook account using a previously used device

Facebook recognizes devices you’ve previously used to log in, which can make the verification process shorter. If possible, use the same phone or computer.

  1. On the known device, go to facebook.com/login/identify.
  2. Enter your name, email, or phone number.
  3. Select your account.
  4. Choose how to receive the verification code.
  5. Enter the code and create a new password.

How to recover a Facebook account without email or password

Even without your main details, it’s still possible to locate and recover your Facebook account using alternative information.

  1. Go to facebook.com/login/identify.
  2. Click “Search by your email or name instead.”
  3. Enter your full name, username, or nickname.
  4. If your account doesn’t appear, select “I’m not in this list.”
  5. Provide the name of a friend you’ve added.
  6. Use an active phone number to receive the code.
  7. Reset your password.

Using the official facebook.com/hacked page

Even if you’re not sure your account has been hacked, this official page can help you recover it.

  1. Go to facebook.com/hacked.
  2. Follow the instructions to report that you can’t access your account.
  3. Try using alternative linked emails or phone numbers.
  4. Reset your password if you regain access.

Finding your account on a familiar device

If possible, use an already authorized device to make recognition easier.

  1. On that device, go to facebook.com/login/identify.
  2. Enter your email, phone, or username.
  3. If it doesn’t work, ask a friend to find your profile and send you the username link.
  4. Once you locate your account, click “Forgot account?”
  5. Provide a new contact method.
  6. Confirm your identity and reset your password.

Using another profile to report the issue

When all other methods fail, you can ask for help using another account or a friend’s profile.

  1. Go to the lost account’s profile on Facebook.
  2. Click the three dots and select “Find support or report profile.”
  3. Choose “Something else” and then “I can’t access my account.”
  4. Follow the instructions, provide a new email, and upload an ID document.
  5. Wait for Facebook’s response.

Extra tips to increase your chances

  • Always double-check that you’ve typed your email and phone number correctly when logging in.
  • Include your country code (e.g., +1 for United States ).
  • Contact your email provider to regain access before trying on Facebook.
  • Activate two-factor authentication after recovery to avoid future problems.

How to prevent losing access to your Facebook account

If you forget your password, you should have a way to regain access without it.

You can use one of several recovery options to prevent losing your account in the future:

  • Keep your contact info updated so Facebook can send you a confirmation code via a trusted email or phone number.
  • Create a passkey as a safe alternative to passwords. Passkeys are more secure because they are generated specifically for your account and are less vulnerable to phishing.
  • Add an extra email or phone number in case your primary contact is compromised.
  • Use your real name and birth date so Facebook can find your profile if you lose access.

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