Facebook warning as security updates risk users being LOCKED out of their account if they don’t act now

SHOCKED Facebook users are finding their account has been mysteriously locked.

The issue hit some people who mistook a simple message for spam.

When they realised the warning is actually real, they still weren't able to get back on.

Certain accounts believed to be at high risk from hackers were sent a warning, forcing them to switch on an enhanced security feature called Facebook Protect.

A March 17 deadline was set or they'd be banned from logging in until its done.

It's likely some people mistook the message for a scam, so dismissed it.

The fact it used an unusual email address - security@facebookmail.com - probably didn't make the situation any better.

After the deadline passed, users were told they had to switch on Facebook Protect to get in.

But people that went ahead with it claim the set up process is broken so they are still locked out.

Apparently, the authentication tools - such as a text message to prove its you - are where the problem lies.

"I have tried for days to get the code. FB never responds," one user said.

Another complained on , saying: "This Facebook Protect thing is so annoying because it’s not letting me turn it on and I need Facebook for work so I’m really hoping Facebook fixes the stupid code."

Weeks later, the problem still appears to be affecting some.

"So I was locked out of my fb because I did not turn my Facebook Protect on. Wtf," one person .

Facebook Protect is meant for those who are more likely to be targeted online, such people working in human rights, journalists and Government officials.

• Read all the latest Phones & Gadgets news
• Keep up-to-date on Apple stories
• Get the latest on Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram

We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Tech & Science team? Email us at tech@the-sun.co.uk