Discord has become one of the most popular communication platforms, with over 150 million active users. Unfortunately, with popularity comes hackers looking to compromise accounts. Keeping your Discord account secure should be a priority. In this post, I’ll explain how hacking happens and provide actionable tips to help protect your account from hackers.
How Discord Accounts Get Hacked
Hackers typically gain access to Discord accounts through:
- Weak or Reused Passwords: If your password is easy to guess or you use the same one across multiple sites, hackers can easily brute force or phish the password. Always use strong, unique passwords.
- Malicious Links: Opening suspicious links can infect your device with malware designed to steal Discord login credentials. Be wary of random links and never enter your Discord password on unofficial sites.
- Account Sharing: Giving account access to others increases the attack surface. Never share your login details.
- Social Engineering: Hackers may try tricking you into revealing personal info through phishing emails or fake support chats. Use caution when contacted about your account.
- Exploiting Discord Vulnerabilities: Hackers look for bugs or flaws in Discord’s code to gain access. Keep your app updated to ensure you have the latest security protections.
10 Ways to Secure Your Discord Account
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to lock down your Discord and reduce the risk of compromise. Here are my top tips:
1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to enter a code from your phone when logging in. Under User Settings, enable 2FA for your account. This simple step makes it drastically harder for hackers to access your account.
2. Use a Strong, Unique Password
Avoid common passwords like “123456” or “password” that are easy to crack. Instead, create a complex one with upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Using a password manager helps generate and store strong credentials. Also, don’t reuse passwords across accounts.
3. Be Wary of Suspicious Links and Files
Scammers often try tricks like sending malware links disguised as games or other files. Never open links or attachments unless you specifically requested them from a trusted source. When in doubt, confirm with the sender before clicking.
4. Install Antivirus Software
Antivirus software helps protect your devices from infected links, unauthorized access attempts, keyloggers, and other hacking techniques. Run regular scans to detect and remove any threats.
5. Avoid Public Computers and Networks
Public machines may have keyloggers or other malware installed to steal information. Avoid logging into any sensitive accounts on shared computers. Also be cautious of public WiFi which can expose your connection. Use a VPN if connecting from public networks.
6. Turn On App-Based 2FA For Linked Accounts
If your email, social media, or other linked accounts get compromised, hackers can potentially leverage them to reset your Discord password. Enable app-based 2FA on all integrated accounts for added protection.
7. Be Wary of Phishing Attempts
Beware of scam emails or chat messages claiming to be from Discord. They may try getting you to click malicious links or disclose personal information. Discord will never ask for your password. Report any suspicious communications.
8. Limit Account Sharing
Every person you give account access to increases the attack surface. Avoid sharing your login credentials when possible. If you must share access, immediately change your password when they no longer need it.
9. Be Careful with Third-Party Apps
In the Discord ecosystem there are many third-party apps and bots that offer added functionality. However, blindly adding apps to your server or account can be risky:
- Research apps and only add ones from reputable developers
- Don’t add apps that request sweeping permissions
- Revoke permissions from unused or questionable apps
- Avoid clicking authorize on sketchy pop-up permission requests
Stick to well-known safe apps and be selective about which ones you give access to your Discord.
10. Avoid Suspicious Downloads
Similar to suspicious links, unexpectedly downloading files from Discord channels or strangers can be dangerous. These files may contain malware or other vulnerabilities that could jeopardize your privacy and security.
Be wary of:
- .exe, .msi or .scr files (executable programs)
- Zip/RAR archives from unknown users
- Anything downloaded from a sketchy source
You’re safest sticking to downloads from official sources and people you know. When accepting files via Discord, scan them with antivirus software before opening.
Contact Discord Support if Hacked
If your Discord does get hacked, contact Discord support immediately. You can reach them at support@discordapp.com.
Provide details of the hack and they can help you recover the account, reset your password, and revoke connections to unauthorized apps. Acting quickly can minimize the damage from a hacked account.
Take Control of Your Discord Security
While hackers have many tricks, taking proactive measures goes a long way in securing your Discord account. Start by enabling 2FA and using strong, unique passwords for all linked services. Be wary of sketchy links and files, use antivirus protection, avoid public networks, enable app-based 2FA everywhere, watch for phishing, and limit account sharing when possible.
By taking steps to lock down your Discord account, you can enjoy chatting more peacefully knowing hackers will have a much tougher time compromising your account. Don’t wait until it’s too late – take action today!
FAQs About Protecting Your Discord Account
How do I create a strong password for Discord?
Use at least 12 characters including upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid dictionary words and personal info. Consider using a password manager to generate and store strong credentials.
Should I use the same password across multiple accounts?
No, reusing passwords is unsafe. If one account gets hacked, it jeopardizes all your other accounts. Use unique, strong passwords for every service.
Can someone hack my Discord with just my username?
No, hackers need your login email and password to access your account. Do not share these credentials with anyone. Usernames alone don’t provide access.
Does two-factor authentication completely prevent hacking?
2FA dramatically improves security but cannot prevent all attacks. You should still take precautions like avoiding suspicious links and using strong passwords. Enable 2FA for maximum protection.
Can Discord see or access my password?
No, Discord encrypts and securely stores password hashes. They cannot see or access your actual password. You alone have control.
How do I avoid falling for Discord phishing scams?
Be suspicious of any emails/messages asking you to login or provide personal information. Discord will never ask for your password. Confirm directly with the sender if something seems suspicious.
Should I use antivirus software to secure my Discord?
Yes, antivirus helps protect against malware, infected files, unauthorized access attempts, and other hacking techniques. Keep it updated and run regular scans.
Can hackers takeover my account if I use public WiFi?
Public WiFi carries risks of exposing your traffic to snooping. Use a VPN when on public networks and avoid accessing sensitive accounts over public hotspots.
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