Listeners can now only access new music via music streaming, find new artists, or even learn how to become DJs on their own. I cherish my Spotify account and my playlists because I use it so frequently. Many of you probably have playlists for the gym, meditation, outings, duties around the house, gatherings, or the trip to the grocery store. You might even know all the great tricks on the music streaming service, have a favorite podcast, or both. You might even get a jolt of joy when Spotify sends out your personalized Wrapped roundup at the end of the year.
Imagine someone breaking into your Spotify account and changing the password to lock you out, reorganize your library, or create new playlists. Much more than just a slight irritation, in fact! It’s possible that you weren’t even hacked in some circumstances, but rather that you accidentally left your account logged in. In any event, here’s what to do if you think someone else has accessed your account.
Watch out For These Red Flags.
The inability to log into Spotify is the clearest indication that someone is using your account. Consider it a double-red signal if your password and/or email stop working for no apparent reason. It’s possible that a freeloader has stolen your original login information, even though you should typically be able to request a new password (and subsequently change it as described below).
If so, you’ll need to get in touch with Spotify because you won’t be able to change the password or email address on your own. Unfortunately, the organization does not provide two-factor authentication, thus it is up to you to keep an eye on your login information. Otherwise, the other person might have been more cunning, and there are additional things you should check if you still have access to your account. Click on your “Recently played” row, for example, and check to see whether it is out of balance.
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The “Jump back in” section could contain tracks or mixes that raise red flags as well. The addition or deletion of playlists is another clear sign that your account has been accessed without your knowledge. An outsider may have obtained access if you discover something that neither you nor Spotify selected and the songs are completely unrelated to what you typically listen to. Other signs that a stranger may have seized control of your account, according to Spotify’s support center, include modifications to your membership plan, music playing erratically without your consent, and email notifications regarding suspicious login credentials.
Check your account information under Settings to verify your email address and plan type, if you have access. Verify that both are correct. Often, passwords and emails are obtained by criminals as a result of data breaches on other websites. Although Spotify promises customers that its service is secure, there is a chance that your login information could be stolen somewhere else. Visit Have I Been Pwned as an extra step to check if your email has been compromised. Enter your email address to see if it has been distributed on the dark web.
Last but not least, even if instances of music playing on its own may be linked to third-party programs like Samsung’s Bixby routines or Google’s alarm clock, there’s still a risk it implies someone else has access to your Spotify account. There are also ways to restrict arbitrary songs from playing over your speakers if you have several devices or external accounts connected to Spotify.
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Quit Spotify and Change Your Password.
Shutting off Spotify on all devices and changing your password are the best ways to resist the takeover. When clicking the link to reset their passwords, Spotify recommends customers do it in a private window. The company also advises changing passwords for third-party services like Facebook, Google, and Apple that are linked to your Spotify account.
This is how you do it: Log in and go to the Account page under your Profile in a web browser. Go down the page and select “Sign Out Everywhere.” With this, you may log out of Spotify on your desktop, tablet, phone, and web player.
You will need to sign out separately if Spotify is connected to your TV, gaming system, or speaker, though. Go to your Account overview page on the desktop app, find the menu on the left, and pick Apps, which is represented by a puzzle-piece icon. A list of associated apps will be displayed. You might notice Facebook and other integrated applications like Slack, Apple TV, Discord, and Tinder. The Spotify sign-out and access restriction are activated when you select Remove Access.
Check Your Bill.
Users who have set up automatic payments with Spotify might not always review their monthly subscription statements. Look for any differences in your plan type by briefly scanning your billing statement. Are you paying for a Premium Family plan despite having signed up for a Premium Individual subscription? Contact Spotify if you discover that you are being charged for a membership that you didn’t choose.
It’s also important to note that Spotify allows a variety of payment options, including PayPal, gift cards, debit/credit cards, and pay-as-you-go. Although you might be paying Spotify directly through the app, if you are being billed by a third party, such as an internet service provider or a cellular carrier, be sure your payment information is secure.
If You’ve Misplaced Your Playlists or Access, Contact Spotify.
If you experience account lockout as a result of someone altering your email address and password, or if your problems with a potential account hack develop, you should get in touch with Spotify. Incorrect billing charges, stolen login passwords, and lost playlists can all be fixed with customer service.
