What to Do If Your Email Has Been Hacked

Your email provider notifies you of logins from unfamiliar devices or locations.

You’re locked out of your account despite using the correct password.

Important messages are missing, or you notice emails in your 'Sent' folder that you didn’t write.

If your contacts receive spam, phishing links, or requests for money from 'you,' hackers may be using your account.

Hackers might change recovery emails, phone numbers, or enable automatic email forwarding to their own address.

Go to your email provider’s login page. If your password doesn’t work, try the 'Forgot Password' option. Follow account recovery instructions. If recovery options were changed by the hacker, contact customer support.

If you regain access, change your password to a strong, unique one. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). Check and update your recovery email and phone number.

Check your sent folder and recent activity log. Look for new forwarding rules. Scan your devices for malware in case hackers gained access through a virus or keylogger.

Avoid using the same password across multiple sites. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.

2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification before granting account access.

Be cautious when opening emails from unknown senders. Always verify the sender before clicking on links.

Install antivirus software and update your system regularly.

Check for unusual logins or unauthorized changes in security settings.

A hacked email account can be a serious security risk, but quick action can minimize the damage. By following these steps, you can regain control of your account and strengthen your defenses against future attacks.