What To Do When Your Email Gets Hacked
Discovering that your email has been compromised can be alarming. While changing your password is essential, it may not be enough to secure your account against further intrusions. Here’s a practical guide to regain control of your email and protect yourself from future hacks.
Step 1: Perform a Full Security Scan
Start by running a comprehensive security scan on your computer using trusted anti-malware software. Quick scans might miss critical threats. Here are some recommended tools:
- Malwarebytes (available for both Windows and Mac)
- Bitdefender Total Security
- Symantec Norton 360 Deluxe
Step 2: Change Your Password and Security Questions
Immediately change your email password to something strong and unique. Avoid using slight variations of your old password. A good method is to create a passphrase similar to:
- “I workout every day at 7 AM” => “Iw0rk0utEv3rYdAy@7am!”
Also, update security questions and consider using a password manager to store complex answers securely.
Step 3: Restore Access to Your Account
If you’ve lost access due to the hacker changing your password, follow the account recovery process:
- Answer verification questions or utilize a backup email.
- For Gmail, Outlook, and AOL, check their recovery guides.
Step 4: Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security. Once enabled, you’ll need to provide a second form of identification when logging in, such as a code sent via SMS or generated by an app. Set this up by following guidelines from:
Step 5: Review Email Settings
Hi, a hacker might alter your email settings to continue snooping:
- Check forwarding settings for any unauthorized email addresses.
- Ensure your email signature hasn’t been tampered with.
- Inspect your “reply-to” address and auto-responder settings.
Step 6: Assess Other Compromised Accounts
Hackers often gain access to more than just your email. Do a thorough check:
- Search your inbox for stored passwords or personal information.
- Change passwords for other accounts that may share the same credentials.
- Monitor financial accounts for any unauthorized transactions.
- You may want to place a fraud alert on your account with credit agencies.
Step 7: Inform Your Contacts
Notify friends and associates that your email was hacked. Advise them to avoid opening links from any suspicious messages sent from your account recently.
Step 8: Strengthen Your Security Practices
To minimize future risks, consider the following tips:
- Use strong, unique passwords across different accounts.
- Limit the personal information shared on social media.
- Bookmark frequently visited sites to avoid phishing attempts.
- Avoid using public computers for sensitive log-ins.
Comparative Overview of Security Measures
| Step | Action | Tools/Resources |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Run Security Scan | Malwarebytes, Bitdefender |
| 2 | Change Password | Strong password generator |
| 3 | Recover Account | Recovery Guide |
| 4 | Enable 2FA | SMS or Authenticator App |
| 5 | Check Email Settings | Email provider settings |
| 6 | Assess Other Accounts | Credit agency alerts |
| 7 | Notify Contacts | Your email account |
| 8 | Improve Security Practices | Password manager |
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can’t recover my email account?
If recovery options fail, consider creating a new email account and ensure that all your contacts are informed of the change.
How can I tell if my email account has been hacked?
Signs include unusual activity, such as sent emails you did not compose, password changes you did not authorize, or notifications regarding unfamiliar logins.
Is two-factor authentication really necessary?
Yes, 2FA significantly increases your account’s security, making it much harder for unauthorized users to gain access.
What if I suspect my email was used for identity theft?
Take immediate action by alerting your financial institutions and consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports.
For more information on account recovery and security, visit IdentityTheft.gov.
