Hacked? Emergency Cyber Security Checklist & Recovery Guide

🚨 Emergency Triage Checklist

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1. Disconnect Device from Internet Immediately stop remote access software or malware communication.

2. Scan for Malware Run a deep scan with trusted antivirus software before logging in.

3. Change Passwords (From a Clean Device) Do not use the infected computer. Use your phone or a different PC.

4. Check Email Forwarding Rules Hackers often auto-forward your emails to themselves to steal OTP codes.

5. Enable 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) Use an Authenticator App (Google/Microsoft Auth), not SMS/Text.

The Golden Hour: What to do immediately

The first 60 minutes after you realize you have been hacked are the most critical. This concept, known in cybersecurity as the "Golden Hour," is when you have the highest chance of recovering your accounts before the attacker locks you out permanently.

How to identify a hack?

Unrecognized Login Alerts: Emails stating a login from a location you are not in.
Password Reset Requests: Receiving OTP codes you didn't ask for.
Contacts Complaining: Friends asking why you sent them a strange link.

Why did they hack me?

Most hacks are not personal. They are automated scripts looking for vulnerabilities. They want your account to run crypto scams, spam your friends, or sell your identity on the dark web. By acting fast using the checklist above, you cut off their access.