Ask a tech expert: What can I do after my computer was hacked?
My brother’s computer was hacked. My sister-in-law got a link to PayPal and opened it. The guy who sent it convinced my brother to give up access to his computer. He cleaned out an IRA account and sold a trading account. That’s $450,000 gone. What can I tell my brother to do?
— Phylis in Florida
So awful. Let’s start with the computer: If he wants to keep it, he must do a full factory reset and start from scratch. A new router is also smart in case the person behind this enabled remote access.
He’s got other work to do, too. He needs to change every single one of his passwords, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on every account and install antivirus software.
Make sure to file a local police report and contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. But don’t stop there. He has more work to do.
Has your device been hacked? Take these must-do steps ASAP
If you have fallen prey to a criminal out to get your money or personal information, the best thing you can do is protect yourself from what’s to come. Once you’ve called the appropriate agency to report the crime, there are things you can do to protect yourself from further attacks.
- File a police report: You must file a police report, as banks may need a copy to reimburse any stolen funds.
- Request a credit freeze or short-term fraud alert: A fraud alert will remain for 90 days, reducing the risk of your identity being stolen. You only need to contact one of the credit reporting agencies, and they will contact the others for you. A freeze is a step above a fraud alert, but you’ll need to be prepared to wait for your credit to be unfrozen if you need it for things like buying or renting a home.
- Sign up for credit monitoring: There are many free options, and you’ll want to monitor your credit for future fraudulent charges.
- Change all your passwords: Tap or click here for ways to create stronger passwords.
- Download new antivirus software or update your current software: Tap or click here for the best antivirus option for PC, Mac, iPhone and Android.
- Contact the Social Security Administration: If your Social Security number has been stolen, contact SSA here to tell them your number has been compromised.
- Keep an eye on your bank accounts: If you see any suspicious activity, report it immediately.
- Back up your data: To protect yourself from losing critical files, you should back up your information. We recommend our sponsor, IDrive. Save 90% on your first year when you use promo code Kim at checkout.
❓ Have a question for me? Drop it right here, or leave me a voicemail at 602‑381‑8200 ext. 290.
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Scammers shopping for stolen data on the Dark Web have found a scary new way to make money: unemployment fraud. With enough personal data and a viable Social Security number, it’s easy to apply for benefits.
Earlier in the year, states were having a hard time getting benefits to unemployed workers. The wait times are much shorter now, and scammers take advantage of it to avoid being noticed. Tap or click here to see an app that speeds up the process.