Despite a devastating Facebook hack, Jamestown artist Nate Shockley is rebuilding his global wood and epoxy art business one post at a time.
JAMESTOWN, N.C. — In a modest workshop tucked behind his home, Nate Shockley transforms raw wood into intricate, one-of-a-kind art pieces. Utilizing techniques like fractal burning—a high-voltage process that creates lightning-like patterns on wood—Shockley has captivated a global audience. His unique blend of woodwork and epoxy artistry has earned him a dedicated following on social media platforms, particularly Facebook.
However, in a cruel twist, Shockley’s thriving online business was derailed when his Facebook account was hacked. The hackers seized control of his page, stealing years of content and over 148,000 followers. Despite numerous attempts to contact Facebook for assistance, Shockley received no response.
“I worked five years to build something as a former felon who turned his life around,” Shockley said. “They took everything away from me. It’s hard on me.”
The breach occurred during a Zoom call with individuals posing as representatives from a prominent social media company seeking to collaborate with small business artists. Shockley was showcasing his work when the scammers took control of his Facebook page, changing his login credentials without his knowledge. By the time he realized it, the account was beyond his reach.
Despite the setback, Shockley is slowly rebuilding his brand and business, one post and one follower at a time. He continues to create and sell his art, relying on the same platform that failed to assist him during his time of need.
The incident serves as a cautionary tale for small business owners relying on social media platforms for their livelihoods. Experts advise skepticism when granting access to accounts and recommend using additional security measures to protect online assets.
As Shockley perseveres, his story highlights the resilience of artists and entrepreneurs in the face of adversity. His journey underscores the importance of safeguarding digital platforms and the challenges faced by small business owners in the digital age.
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