THE SHORT VERSION
Use your email provider’s recovery steps to get back in. Then change the password, sign out of all devices, turn on two-factor authentication and check your recovery details.
A familiar situation
Imagine a friend asks why you emailed them a strange link last night. You didn’t send it. That, a password change you didn’t make, or a sign-in alert from an unfamiliar place can all be signs.
1. Get back in
Update your computer’s security software and run a scan, then follow your email provider’s official recovery steps. Your email matters most because it can be used to reset passwords on your other accounts.
2. Lock it down
Change to a strong new password, sign out of all devices, turn on two-factor authentication, and make sure the recovery email address and phone number are yours.
3. Check for changes and tell people
Delete forwarding rules you didn’t create and look through sent and deleted messages. Let your contacts know, and ask them not to click links from you or answer requests for money.
One thing to try today
Open your email’s security settings today and check that the recovery phone number and backup email are current. It takes a minute and makes recovery much easier.
Read more from trusted sources
General educational guidance. If you believe someone has stolen your information or money, use the official recovery guidance at IdentityTheft.gov or ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Pass a useful tip along.
Share the guide or copy its short takeaway for your own post.
LinkedIn
X
Reddit