AN OSTEOPATH based in Stockbridge is urging people to unfollow her practice’s social media account after falling victim to cybercrime and identity theft.

Emma Wightman, who runs Stockbridge Osteopathic Practice, has had her personal Facebook account and business page with 20,000 followers compromised by hackers.

The unauthorised access to her Facebook account happened on March 7. Hackers gained entry to the account through her Microsoft email account, allowing manipulation of content and access to personal information.

Upon discovering the breach, Emma immediately attempted to secure the account and mitigate further damage. She has reported the incident to Facebook, but there has been no response or support offered.

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Her personal Facebook account was taken over and deactivated by the hackers, but the Stockbridge Osteopathic Practice business page remains visible to followers with the ability to still interact with it.

However, Emma is unable to gain access, and remove or alter content as access requires logging in to the personal page which is now in the hackers’ control.

Since March 16, the hackers have begun impersonating Emma and posting content summarised from recent blog posts on the practice website, plus the addition of incorrect practice opening time.

She believes it is possible that the posts may become malicious.

“There could be posts that advertise fake products or services in exchange for personal details or money,” Emma said.

“It is therefore vital that followers stop following the Stockbridge Osteopathic Practice account, avoid commenting, liking and sharing content and above all, not to part with any money or personal details.”

Emma is understandably devastated that all the hard work that went into building a well-known and much-loved page with nearly 20,000 followers will be lost.

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But she wants to inform the public about the incident and to urge vigilance regarding online security.

She would also be grateful to hear from anyone who has experience of restoring hacked accounts and give advice on ways of contacting Facebook.

Looking at the future, Emma said a new page has been set up with the hope that her loyal, engaged and active followers will support the rebuilding process.

The new page name is @stockbridgeosteopathy on Instagram and Facebook.

For more information or enquiries, please contact Emma Wightman at reception@the-sop.com.