How Do TikTok Accounts Get Hacked in 2023?

Securing Your TikTok Account: Preventing Hacks and Enhancing Privacy

Launched in 2016 by the Beijing-based company ByteDance, TikTok is a cutting-edge video-sharing platform that has amassed over 2 billion users worldwide. Its dramatic growth has made it particularly attractive to young people. However, it raises some security concerns, especially with its whopping 315 million installs in the first quarter of 2020 alone. So, how can users safeguard their TikTok accounts from potential hacks?

Every day, hackers are becoming more adept at exploiting the growing interest in TikTok. Their primary strategy is to send deceptive links via direct messages (DMs), often with convincing messages like "Login to TikTok". Another prevalent method involves altering HTTP queries with a Proxy tool to distribute malware-filled messages, often by creating phishing pages. The hackers' repertoire also includes exploiting Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) and Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities to run harmful JavaScript codes stealthily.

These hacking techniques allow cybercriminals to modify user's browser cookies and act on their behalf without their knowledge. Their actions may range from deleting or uploading videos, changing private videos to "public", and accessing personal data like email addresses.

TikTok continuously rolls out updates and patches to address these security loopholes. However, it was discovered that TikTok, like 50 other iOS and iPadOS apps, can keep track of user's clipboard information. This poses a significant threat as credit card details and other sensitive information could be copied to the user's clipboard.

To combat this, TikTok has removed access to clipboard information in its latest updates following several complaints and restrictions from various organizations, including the US Navy and Army. But, despite these efforts, TikTok remains an attractive target for hackers due to the valuable information that can be accessed through user accounts.

Securing Your TikTok Account: Proactive Steps

1. Protect Your Personal Information

Be wary of the personal information you share, as it could be used against you in a hacking attempt.

2. Implement Two-Factor Authentication

This additional layer of protection requires user approval each time they log into their account from a new device, enhancing your account's security against hackers.

3. Update Your Information Regularly

Keeping your information current can help in recovering your account if it gets compromised.

4. Set Robust Passwords

Your account's first line of defense is a strong password—make it at least 12 characters long, with a mix of special characters, capital letters, and numbers. Avoid using readily available personal information.

5. Monitor Your Account Activity

Check the 'Your Devices' section in the app to identify any unauthorized devices accessing your account.

If you suspect that your account has been compromised, immediately change your password. If you're unable to do so, report the issue to TikTok's support team with a detailed description of your problem.

Enhancing Your Cybersecurity Awareness

Being a conscientious user can go a long way in protecting your account from phishing and other cyber attacks. That's where our Cyber Security Awareness Educator comes in. This comprehensive tool includes detailed tutorials in various languages and topics, along with educational videos for interactive learning.

Once you're confident in your knowledge, test yourself using our Phishing Simulator . Visit our site to explore our resources and start fortifying your cybersecurity defenses today.

Start Your Journey to Robust Cybersecurity with Keepnet Labs Human Risk Management Platform

Navigating the treacherous waters of online threats can be daunting, but Keepnet Labs is here to help. Our comprehensive Human Risk Management Platform offers a suite of tools and simulations designed to enhance your cybersecurity awareness and resilience. By participating in our simulations, you can improve your skills, understand the nature of various cyber threats, and learn how to respond effectively.

1. Begin with our Vishing Simulation

Vishing, or voice phishing, is a type of attack where fraudsters use phone calls to deceive individuals into giving away sensitive information. In this simulation, you'll experience real-world vishing scenarios, helping you recognize and respond to such threats, ultimately preventing potential data breaches and financial losses.

2. Next, experience the Smishing Simulation

Smishing, or SMS phishing, involves deceptive text messages luring individuals into sharing confidential data or clicking on malicious links. Through this simulation, you'll become adept at distinguishing between legitimate messages and potential smishing attempts, adding another layer of protection to your digital life.

3. Dive into the world of multi-factor authentication (MFA) with our MFA Simulation.

Multi-factor authentication is a security system that requires more than one method of authentication from independent categories of credentials to verify a user's identity for a login or other transaction. You will gain hands-on experience in using MFA, fortifying your accounts from unauthorized access.

4. Our Phishing Simulation is the cornerstone of our platform.

Phishing is one of the most common and damaging online threats. This simulation exposes you to various phishing scenarios, teaching you how to spot phishing attempts and react appropriately. It is a valuable exercise in maintaining your online safety.

5. Further bolster your defenses with our Phishing Reporting Add-In.

This feature makes reporting potential phishing attempts simple and swift. By using this tool, you can aid in the early detection of phishing attempts, preventing potential data breaches within your network.

6. Extended Human Risk Platform

In addition to these simulations, Keepnet Labs offers Threat Intelligence, Incident Response , and Awareness Educator products. Our Threat Intelligence product proactively identifies potential threats, giving you the upper hand in safeguarding your data. Our Incident Response product ensures you're prepared to react effectively and efficiently to any security breach, minimizing potential damages.

Our Awareness Educator platform, a comprehensive online learning tool, offers an extensive range of educational materials. Through interactive videos and detailed tutorials in various languages, you can broaden your knowledge of cybersecurity, empowering you to stay one step ahead of potential cyber threats.

Harnessing these tools not only increases your personal cyber defenses but also aids in creating a safer digital environment for everyone. As a user of our platform, you become part of the solution, helping to identify and neutralize threats before they can cause widespread harm.

Are you ready to elevate your cybersecurity awareness and skills? Start your free trial today with Keepnet Labs Human Risk Management Platform. Embrace a future where online threats are not a constant concern, but a manageable challenge. Join us, and together, let's make the digital world a safer place.