Facebook is one of the world’s most popular social media platforms, with over 2.8 billion monthly active users. Given its widespread use, it’s important to take measures to secure your Facebook account. One of the easiest ways to boost your Facebook security is by changing your password regularly.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the steps to How to Change Password on Facebook on both desktop and mobile. We’ll also cover what to do if you get locked out of your account. Follow these tips to keep your Facebook profile safe from unauthorized access.
Why You Should Change Your Facebook Password Frequently
Here are some key reasons why changing your Facebook password periodically is crucial:
- Prevent unauthorized access: By changing your password often, you reduce the risk of someone else accessing your account. If a hacker gets your password, they won’t be able to use it for long.
- Safeguard private information: Your Facebook profile contains personal details like your birthdate, location, photos, and messages. Changing your password ensures this info stays private.
- Protect friends and contacts: A hacked Facebook account could be used to send spam or malicious links to your friend list. Changing your password protects your contacts.
- Refresh weak passwords: Over time, you may have created a weak Facebook password that’s easy to guess. Changing it enhances safety.
- Peace of mind: Knowing your Facebook account is secured with a new, strong password gives you confidence your profile is protected.
Experts recommend changing your Facebook password every 60 to 90 days. But even changing it every 6 months can boost security.
Step-by-Step Guide How to Change Your Facebook Password on Desktop
Changing your password via Facebook on the desktop only takes a few minutes. Follow these steps:
How to Change Password on Facebook Via Settings
- Log into your Facebook account on a computer.
- Click on the down arrow icon in the top right corner.
- From the drop-down menu, select Settings & Privacy.
- Click on Settings.
- On the left side menu, click Security and Login.
- Under the Security section, click Edit next to Change Password.
- Enter your current Facebook password in the first field.
- Type your new password in the second field. Make sure it’s a strong password (more on that below).
- Retype the new password in the last field.
- Click Save Changes.
Your Facebook password is now changed! The next time you log in, you’ll need to enter the new password.
If You’re Logged Out of Facebook
If you need to change your Facebook password but can’t log into your account, here’s what to do:
- Go to Facebook.com.
- On the login page, click Forgotten your password?
- Enter the email address or mobile number associated with your Facebook account.
- Follow the instructions to reset your password.
- Create a new, strong password.
- Click Continue to complete the reset process.
This lets you regain access to your account so you can change the password.
If You Can’t Access the Email/Phone for Your Account
In some cases, you may no longer have access to your Facebook account’s email or phone number. Here are a few options to recover your account:
- Use Facebook’s identity page to verify your identity.
- Try to recover access to your email by resetting the password.
- If you enabled Trusted Contacts, use them to regain account access.
- Add an alternate email or phone number to your Facebook account so you have a backup.
With one of these recovery options, you can get back into your Facebook account and change the password for better security.
How to Change Your Facebook Password in the Mobile App
You can also easily change your Facebook password right from the Facebook mobile app. Here’s how:
How to Change Password on Facebook on iPhone/iOS
- Open the Facebook app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap the three-line menu icon in the bottom right.
- Select Settings & Privacy.
- Tap on Settings.
- Click on Security and Login.
- Tap on Change Password.
- Enter your current password.
- Type your new password and confirm it.
- Tap Save Changes to update your password.
How to Change Password on Facebook on Android
- Launch the Facebook app on your Android device.
- Tap the three-line menu icon in the top right.
- Choose Settings & Privacy.
- Click on Security and Login.
- Select Change Password.
- Enter your old password.
- Type your new password twice.
- Tap Save Changes.
And that’s it! Your Facebook password is now updated on mobile.
On Mobile Browser
If you prefer using the mobile browser version:
- Go to Facebook in your phone’s web browser.
- Scroll to the bottom and tap Settings & Privacy.
- Choose Security, then Security, and Login.
- Select Change Password.
- Enter your current and new passwords.
- Tap Save Changes when done.
Tips for Creating a Strong Facebook Password
Creating a strong password is crucial for maximum security when changing your Facebook password. Here are some tips:
- Use 12-16 characters – The longer the password; the tougher it is to crack.
- Mix upper and lowercase letters – Using both cases makes passwords harder to guess.
- Add numbers and symbols – Incorporating digits and characters like @ and # boosts strength.
- Avoid personal info – Don’t use your name, birthday, pet’s name, or other data that could be easily found.
- Don’t reuse passwords – Unique passwords for each account are much more secure.
- Consider passphrases – Combining random words together can create memorable passwords.
You can also use a password generator to create super-strong passwords. Just be sure to select at least 12 characters.
What to Do if You’re Locked Out of Facebook
There are a few reasons you may find yourself locked out of your Facebook account. Follow these tips to recover access:
- Reset your password – If you can’t remember your current password, reset it using the steps outlined earlier.
- Check for an old device – You may still be logged in on an old phone or computer. Log out of Facebook on all devices.
- Verify your identity – Use Facebook’s identity verification flow if you can’t reset your password. Submit ID proof.
- Look for an unauthorized change – Check if the email on your account was changed without your consent.
- Use backup codes – If you have two-factor authentication enabled, use your backup codes to log in.
- Wait it out – Sometimes Facebook temporarily locks you out if there are too many login attempts. Try again later.
With one of these solutions, you should be able to recover access to your account. Be sure to check for suspicious activity once you’re logged in again.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication as an Added Security Layer
For maximum Facebook security, enable two-factor authentication after changing your password:
- How it works: You need to enter a 6-digit code from your phone and your password when logging in.
- Enabling it: Under Facebook Settings, go to Security > Two-Factor Authentication. Follow setup instructions.
- Adds protection: Even if someone gets your password, they can’t access your account without the code.
- Backup codes: Generate backup codes you can use if you lose access to your mobile device.
Adding two-factor authentication prevents unauthorized access, even if your new password is compromised in a data breach. It’s highly recommended for those who want robust Facebook account protection.
Conclusion
Maintaining good password hygiene is one of the best ways to secure your Facebook profile and personal information. Take a few minutes today to learn how to change your password on Facebook to something strong and unique.
Make changing your password a habit – aim to update it every 60-90 days. Avoid reusing passwords across different accounts.
Enable two-factor authentication for an added layer of security. If you ever find yourself locked out, use the password reset options to recover access.
Keeping your Facebook password updated and complex will help safeguard your account from unauthorized access. Follow the step-by-step instructions outlined in this guide to enhance your Facebook security.