Your Email Was Hacked…Now What?
It’s Cyber Security Awareness Month!
In the last few weeks several people mentioned they were hacked: both personal and work email. I wanted to share few tips that could not only prevent this from occurring, but help you respond to it.
When this happens, the first question I usually get is: how did this happen? The truth is it can happen in multiple ways: a compromised website link, another affected email account within your network at work, public Wi-Fi network, or your phone was compromised. It’s typically hard to pin down exactly.
Here are 3 top prevention tips:
- When you change your password (try to have at least 18 characters).
- Complete the latest security updates on your computer (and phone) when prompted.
- Try to not use public Wi-Fi networks.
What to do after your email is hacked:
- Check any related accounts (for example, if you have a PayPal account connected to your compromised account, or the company bank account linked to that email account).
- Continue to be weary of links on emails, even if it comes from trusted source.
Work Networks:
- Have your IT team scan for malware.
- You will want to let your IT team know in case another company account or network is affected.