It’s 10:30 on a Tuesday night and you’re watching The Office re-runs when you get an email from one of your friends with the dreaded line “hey, I think your Twitter was hacked.” Your friend got a DM (or direct message) in their Twitter account from you but it’s not from you. Instantly you’re filled with thoughts of embarrassment, fear and anxiety but the problem is very common. What to do next?

Luckily there are a few good resources on the web covering tips on how to get your Twitter back in order. It’s important to know the warning signs your account has been tampered with. Below are a few signs your Twitter account or someone else’s may have been compromised by a hacker.

Don’t Click That Link!

#1 Hack Example:

“LOL… I am laughing so hard at this photo someone uploaded of me bit.ly/oAjsj3”

• Your DM sounds like it was written by a teenager
• Using LOL in the message is a giveaway there’s something fishy afoot
• A URL shortening link like Bit.ly is commonly used but can be a red flag
• Don’t click that link!

#2 Hack Example:

“I lost 12 pounds in 14 days. Take a look bit.ly/oAjsj3”

Wow, my best friend lost 12 pounds in only 14 days. I’ve got to see this! Hold up. Weight loss tweets are a giveaway your friend’s account is on the fritz. Don’t click that link!

#3 Hack Example:

“Allow me to share this incredible opportunity bit.ly/oAjsj3”

Sound too good to be true? Don’t click that link!

#4 – Strange Apps:

You notice some strange apps in your Twitter settings you don’t remember installing. Better uninstall those!

#5 – Dramatic Increase or Decrease in Followers:

If your account starts following 100s of new people or you are losing followers in large numbers, you might have been hacked.

How to fix?

Twitter Spam Resources:

Ok, so it’s time to fix. Below are some resources to help you get your Twitter account back in order.

Has Your Twitter Account Been Hacked? Here’s How to Fix it.

My Twitter has been hacked

7 steps to fix your Twitter

3 Steps to Fix Your Hacked Twitter

Twitter Support: What to do if your Twitter has been hacked

Happy Tweeting!

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