10 simple steps if your password got hacked
Irresponsible behaviors such as using a guessable and simple password, and reusing it across multiple accounts lead to the hacking of password. For optimal security, it’s best to combine strong, unique and lengthy passwords. Many experts recommend that your password should be more than 10 characters. Moreover, users sometime neglect the security measures such as Two Factor Authentication and Encryption and fall vulnerable to data breaches.
Other reasons of password hack include sharing passwords with friends and writing down them in accessible places. Similarly, ignoring the updates can also expose device to vulnerabilities. It is not suggested that you use an easy password. You should check your password strength using a reputable password strength checker.
If your password got hacked, you need to take immediate steps to protect your online data.
1. Changing the Password
It is the first step in this regard which is most crucial as well. To prevent further unauthorized access, create a strong password this time. Do not use common phrases and words, and if the compromised password was used across multiple platforms change them too. You can check our list of safe and unsafe passwords to get an idea. Moreover, regularly updating credentials reduce the threat of continued breaches.
2. Two factor Authentication
This step adds an extra layer of security as it requires two form of verification. These are something you know that is your password and something you have, means a code. This way, if a hacker gets your password, the access to your account would be unable. Common methods of Two Factor Authentication are SMS codes or hardware tokens.
3. Check Account Activity
Regularly check your account activity for any suspicious action. Check under “recent activity” or login history. Here you can review date, time and location of logins. Any unfamiliar device or location points towards unauthorized access. Logout of these devices and report to the service provider. These steps can help in early actions before serious damage could happen.
4. Notify Services
It is essential to notify the affected services if your password is hacked, especially the financial services and other sensitive accounts. You can use trustworthy password managers as memorizing all passwords is not an easy task. Inform your service provider about the issue and ask for steps to be taken. Some services offer to temporarily freeze the account. Furthermore, reporting the issue makes the service monitor the suspicious activity and take action. They would even block fraudulent transactions. Quick communication is necessary to minimize the loss and damage.
5. Secure the devices
Securing the device is an essential step in safeguarding data. In this regard, regularly update your operating system, apps and software. Set a biometric authentication along password. Moreover, use encryption for sensitive data and a VPN for additional security as public WIFI is less secure. Do not leave your device unattended. Similarly, do not download apps and files from untrusted sources and enable firewalls to block threats.
6. Reset Password
Attempt to reset the password, if you suspect it has been changed without your authorization. Navigate to the affected services log in page and click Forget Password link. This link asks to enter email address where the reset link or code will be sent. Follow the directions to reset your password. Create such a password that you have never used before.
In case you do not receive a message or email, check your spam or junk folder. If you do not find the message there, it means the email address has been changed by the hacker. It is crucial to contact customer support now.
7. Scan for Malware
To secure the digital life, scanning for malware is an essential step. Malware is designed to damage your system, and introduced through email attachments and suspicious links. To start a scan, use a reputable anti-malware and ensure it is up-to-date. Perform a full system scan and avoid using the computer for other tasks during the process. Regular updates and scans can significantly reduce the risk of malware attacks.
8.Update Security Questions
An extra layer of security is added when you are required to answer a question that only you would know. However, easily guessable answers would be a problem. To update the questions, navigate to settings and locate the section for security questions. Select the questions that are unique. Use random Characters in your answers and regular update them.
9. Monitor Accounts
If you have experienced a password change monitor all your accounts and platforms where sensitive and personal data is stored. Frequently check your card’s statements, and report suspicious logins and activities. Enable all notifications and alerts as some services offer real time notifications for purchases and login attempts. Furthermore, using credit monitoring services keep track of credit accounts opened in your name. Staying active and cautious helps to reduce the risks and addresses the issues.
10. Beware of Phishing attempts
Cybercriminals use tactics to get out the sensitive information from users. These attacks are in the form of mails, messages or calls. Such attempts appear to be from a legitimate source and trusted organizations. When accessing the internet, always use secure browsers that do not save your personal information or data without your consent. Phishing generates an urgency, misleading consumers into providing information. Always check the sender’s address and investigate unsolicited correspondence. Use anti-phishing software and remain suspicious.
