Signs Your YouTube Channel Has Been Hacked

Indicators of account compromise include:

• Unexpected changes to channel name or avatar

• Unauthorized videos appearing in your uploads

• Subscriptions to unknown channels

• Inability to log in with usual credentials

• YouTube notifications about suspicious activity

Immediate Actions When Hacking is Detected

1. Attempt login with all known passwords

2. Check associated email for unauthorized changes

3. Revoke access for suspicious apps in Google settings

4. Notify subscribers about potential strange posts

5. Take screenshots as evidence of hacking

Recovering Access Through YouTube's Form

1. Go to Google account recovery page

2. Select "I don't remember my password"

3. Enter email linked to the channel

4. Check backup emails and phone numbers

5. Answer security questions (if set up)

6. Follow system instructions to reset password

Recovery Through YouTube Support

If standard methods fail:

1. Visit YouTube Help Center

2. Select "Violations and Security"

3. Find "Hacked Account" section

4. Complete special request form

5. Attach proof of channel ownership

6. Provide contact details for follow-up

Required Proof of Ownership

Prepare for verification:

• YouTube Studio dashboard screenshots

• Original video files you've published

• Copies of email correspondence with YouTube

• Monetization earnings data (if applicable)

• Trademark documents (for brand channels)

Securing Your Channel After Recovery

Post-recovery measures:

1. Change all passwords to complex combinations

2. Enable two-factor authentication

3. Review trusted devices list

4. Revoke third-party app access

5. Set up suspicious activity alerts

Preventing Future Hacks

Effective protection methods:

• Regular password updates (every 3-6 months)

• Using password managers

• Limiting third-party access

• Being vigilant about phishing emails

• Monitoring account activity

When Recovery Seems Impossible

Alternative solutions:

1. Create new channel and notify subscribers

2. Submit legal request via Google forms

3. Contact law enforcement (for significant damages)

4. Use mediation through YouTube partners

5. Share situation on social media

Estimated Recovery Timelines

Varies by case complexity:

• With email access: minutes to 24 hours

• Via support form: 3-14 business days

• Legal requests: 2 weeks to several months

• Complex cases may require months of review

Preventing Content Loss

Backup recommendations:

• Regularly save original video files

• Maintain archive of descriptions and metadata

• Export subscriber lists

• Preserve key analytics data

• Use cloud storage for backups

Recovering a hacked YouTube channel requires prompt action and patience. The sooner you begin the recovery process, the higher your chances of successful resolution. Consistent preventive measures will help avoid similar issues in the future.