What to Do if You Know Your Computer Has Been Hacked

What to Do if You Know Your Computer Has Been Hacked - Dr. Eric Steckler fell victim to a tech support scam after responding to a fraudulent email claiming to be from PayPal. Hackers gained remote access to his computer, attempting to steal money. Luckily, Steckler recognized the scam before significant damage was done.

Signs of a Hacked Computer

Unusually slow performance or frequent crashes
Pop-up windows urging you to click links
Inability to shut down or restart your computer
Unknown programs running
New icons on your desktop or browser
Emails sent from your account that you didn't write

What to Do If Your Computer Is Hacked

Disconnect from the internet: Stop hackers from remote access.
Shut down your computer: Prevent further damage.
Seek professional tech support: Trained technicians can remove malware and repair damage.
Change your passwords: Protect your online accounts from unauthorized access. Use a password manager for strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
Notify your financial institutions: Report any fraudulent transactions and cancel compromised cards.

Limiting the Damage

Review your accounts: Monitor bank statements and credit card charges for suspicious activity.
Set up account monitoring: Consider services that track your accounts, credit, and identity.
Freeze your credit reports: Prevent hackers from opening new accounts in your name.
Report the crime: File a report with IdentityTheft.gov and local law enforcement.

How to Avoid Being Hacked

Be cautious with emails and texts: Don't click links in suspicious messages, even from seemingly trusted sources. Contact the company directly if an email raises concerns.
Beware of unsolicited calls: Hang up on calls requesting personal information, computer access, or immediate payment.
Protect your devices: Install antivirus software, enable automatic updates, and use strong passcodes on smartphones.
Avoid public Wi-Fi: Don't access sensitive accounts on unsecured networks.
Back up your data: Regularly back up your computer files for safekeeping.

Stay Vigilant

Steckler's experience highlights the importance of caution. Take your time, don't rush into actions prompted by suspicious messages, and seek help if unsure. By following these steps and remaining vigilant, you can protect yourself from the dangers of computer hacking.

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