If you notice symptoms like “videos being posted without your permission,” “profile pictures or names being changed,” or “suddenly being unable to log in,” there is a high probability that your TikTok account has been hijacked. Hijacking doesn’t just mean losing your precious videos; it can lead to secondary damage, such as fraudulent DMs being sent to your followers.
In this article, we analyze the specific tactics used in TikTok account hijacking and provide a detailed guide ranging from “Emergency Response” to “Definitive Preventive Measures” to ensure you never become a victim again.
Main Causes of TikTok Account Hijacking
The unauthorized operation of a TikTok account by a third party typically stems from the following:
| Tactic | Description |
| 1. Credential Leaks | Password Reuse: Hackers use ID and password combinations leaked from other services to launch “List Attacks” on TikTok. |
| 2. Phishing Scams | Being tricked into entering login info on fake sites or DMs disguised as “Tips to go viral” or “Official warnings.” |
| 3. Vulnerable SNS Links | If your linked Google, Apple ID, or Facebook account is hacked, the attacker gains direct access to your TikTok. |
| 4. Malicious Apps | Granting access to unofficial tools that claim to “show profile views” or “increase followers.” |
| 5. Poor Device Management | Forgetting to log out after using a public computer or a friend’s device. |
Emergency Response: What to Do Immediately
If you suspect something is wrong, perform these operations as quickly as possible:
Step 1: Check Login Devices and Force Logout
If you still have access to your account, you can cut off the attacker’s access:
- Go to Profile → Three-line menu (top right) → Settings and privacy.
- Tap Security → Your devices.
- If you see any unrecognized devices, tap the trash icon (or “Remove”) to force a logout.
Step 2: Change Password and Verify SNS Links
- Immediately change your password to something strong and unique.
- Under Settings and privacy → Account, check for any SNS links or email addresses you don’t recognize. Remove or change them immediately.
Step 3: Report to Support (If you can’t log in)
If the hacker has already changed your login information, you will need help from TikTok:
- Tap the “?” icon at the top right of the login screen.
- Select “Account recovery/Hacked account.”
- Follow the instructions to provide your account name, original registration info, and identity verification documents to request a recovery.
💡 Prevention: Security Habits to Safeguard Your Account
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (MANDATORY): Go to Settings and privacy → Security → 2-step verification and turn it ON. Using a combination of SMS and Email (or an authenticator app) provides the strongest defense.
- Turn On Login Alerts: Set up notifications for logins from new devices so you can react instantly to any suspicious activity.
- Unique Passwords: Never use your TikTok password for other SNS, banking, or E-commerce sites.
- Never Click Links in DMs: Even if a message appears to be “Official,” treat any link that asks you to log in with extreme suspicion.
By implementing these measures, you can dramatically increase the security of your TikTok account and protect your digital presence.
