What to Do If You Get Hacked
Have you ever received an email that looks just like the one in the image above? If so, congratulations, you’ve been hacked. At first glance, this might seem like an isolated occurrence and could be easy to brush off as spam. However, this email is known as phishing and it’s how hackers gain access to your personal information, bank accounts, and other sensitive information. Luckily, there are steps you can take if you ever find yourself in this situation that will help protect your data from being hacked again.
Change your passwords
Phishing attacks, where hackers send emails that contain malware and a link to a fake site in an attempt to steal information from users, are on the rise. While there’s not much you can do if your computer has already been compromised, changing your passwords is one of the first steps you should take if you believe someone may have gained access to your account (say, through a phishing attack). Change any passwords for sites or apps where you use similar login information.
Check your bank account frequently
A phishing attack might get you once, but it won’t happen again if you’re paying attention. Try setting up account alerts on your bank’s website. These will notify you anytime your balance drops below a certain dollar amount or if a transaction is made that you didn’t initiate. This kind of heads-up can help prevent an attacker from siphoning money out of your bank account before you notice.
Use two-factor authentication
Hackers are targeting small businesses more and more, in part because they’re often considered an easier target than larger companies. One way to keep hackers at bay is by requiring two-factor authentication (also known as 2FA) for any sensitive accounts you have, such as your email or bank account. This adds a layer of security by requiring two forms of identification (e.g., a password and a PIN code) before someone can access sensitive information in your account.
Protect your information on social media
The best way to protect yourself from hackers on social media is not by hiding what you’re up to. It’s best not to broadcast your location, but posting photos of your vacations or business trips can signal your whereabouts and allow a cybercriminal to plan an attack. Be selective about what you post; if you want people to see where you are, tag them in a photo instead of posting it publicly. Don’t let your likes and follows make you an easy target for cybercriminals.
Use HTTPS when you can
The protocol HTTP is an unencrypted and open window into your digital life. Your IP address, browsing history, cookies, credit card information—this all travels between your computer and a website in plain text for anyone to see. Since 2010, HTTPS has been part of that equation; it’s a protocol that encrypts your communications with a website. As more websites roll out HTTPS by default, more attackers are turning their attention towards it—which is why it’s important you use HTTPS whenever possible.
Don’t use public WiFi without VPN protection
When you’re online and connected to public WiFi, all your data travels in plain text. That means if you’re using an unsecured network at a coffee shop or hotel, anyone could be snooping on your browsing history and stealing your personal information like passwords and credit card numbers. Use a VPN when connecting over open WiFi networks for added security. Or, if you have files that are too sensitive for email, use a secure service like Boxcryptor.
Lock down your computer with strong passwords
One of your first lines of defense against hackers is to use a complex, unique password for every login. Hackers will often try to use software programs that guess passwords; having one strong password per account makes it much harder for them. Don’t reuse passwords across different sites, and never write them down. Consider using a password manager like LastPass or 1Password if you have trouble remembering multiple passwords.
Keep tabs on your credit reports, especially if you have been hacked recently
Credit report monitoring services such as Credit Sesame and Credit Karma let you check your credit report for free. These services will also alert you if any unauthorized activity takes place on your credit card or if there are any other changes in your credit history that warrant concern. This can be an important proactive measure to take if you believe that a hacker has taken control of your accounts. Don’t rely solely on these tools, however, as they may not detect everything. For example, if you have been hacked but do not notice fraudulent charges until after a few months have passed, it is possible that some damage has already been done. It is still worth checking your reports from time to time (or more frequently) just in case something slips through. Also, keep in mind that you must request your credit report directly from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). While these sites will give you access to your current information, they won’t show you historical data unless you request it directly.