The Instagram Account Of This Thunder Bay, Ont. Musician Was Hacked, And She Now Fears It's Being Used To Deceive Others
Danielle Pollari's most recent Instagram post was a video of her cover of Elvis Presley's Can't Help Falling in Love.
This type of video is common for the Thunder Bay-based entertainer, who uses the social media platform to promote her music and acting career.
"Basically, my Instagram is my way of showcasing myself," she explained. "My website isn't even used by me. I have a website, but I primarily use Instagram to communicate with real people in the moment. So it's ideal, and as an independent artist, it's great because I don't have to rely on others to advertise my work."
Then a hacker gained access to her account and locked her out. She was terrified of losing touch with the fan base she had built — or, worse, putting them in danger.
It began on Jan. 29 when she received a direct message from someone asking for help "becoming verified" on the network. Pollari stated that she was urged to click on a link, but she felt unhappy about the circumstance.
Pollari, however, wanting to assist, copied the link from the message. She was unexpectedly shut out of her account and unable to re-enter.
Pollari, however, wanting to assist, copied the link from the message. She was unexpectedly shut out of her account and unable to re-enter.
Pollari said she started receiving notifications moments later that her account was being stripped of all her personal information and replaced, making it hard for her to log back in.
After the hacker obtained access, she enlisted the help of friends to secure what was remained of her social media presence. She then began contacting Instagram about the matter, as well as reporting her own page, but found herself with limited options.