February 5, 2025

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Personal Finance

Think You’ve Been Hacked? Here’s What to Do Next

Think You’ve Been Hacked? Here’s What to Do Next

Discovering that you’ve been hacked can feel overwhelming, but quick and effective action can make all the difference. Whether it’s your email, bank account, or social media profile, following these steps will help you secure your information, minimize damage, and recover your accounts. Let’s walk through the best practices.

Step 1: Assess and Take Inventory of the Situation
Before taking action, try to determine the extent of the compromise so you can prioritize next steps. Ask yourself: What account or device seems to be affected?

  • What was the source (specific website, certain email, etc.)?
  • How did you find out (unfamiliar transactions, locked account, suspicious emails)?
  • Is your device still functioning properly, or is it completely locked?

Step 2: Change Passwords Immediately
If you still have access to the affected account(s), change the password right away.

  • Use a strong password that combines uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
  • If you use similar passwords on other accounts, update those as well.

Step 3: Secure Your Devices

  • Run a Security Scan: Use antivirus or anti-malware software to scan your computer, tablet, or phone.
  • Disconnect From Wi-Fi: If you suspect your device has been compromised, disconnect it from the internet to prevent further access. Consider changing your Wi-Fi password if the compromise occurred at home.
  • Update Your Software: Ensure your device and apps are updated to the latest version to fix security vulnerabilities.

Step 4: Check Your Bank Accounts
If the hack involves your financial information, check your bank accounts and credit cards for unauthorized transactions. Even if you’re not sure if your financial information was compromised, check your accounts anyway.

  • Report suspicious activity to your bank immediately.
  • Request a fraud alert or freeze your credit to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.
  • Change your banking passwords and PINs.

Step 5: Notify the Affected Parties

  • Email Provider: Notify them that your account has been hacked.
  • Social Media Platforms: Report the hack to regain control of your account.
  • Friends and Family: Warn them about potential phishing emails or scams coming from your compromised account.

Step 6: Contact Relevant Authorities

Step 7: Review and Strengthen Your Security Practices

  • Use a password manager to create and store unique passwords for each account.
  • Regularly monitor your credit report for suspicious activity.
  • Educate yourself on phishing scams, fake websites, and other common hacking tactics.
  • Back up important files securely to an external drive or a reputable cloud service.

Falling victim to a hack or fraud can feel daunting, but taking swift and deliberate action helps protect your data and recover from the incident. The faster you act, the easier it is to regain control and prevent further damage. If you have questions about protecting your accounts or potential fraud, reach out to any Deerwood Bank banker. We’re here to help!

Heidi Tollefsrud

Heidi Tollefsrud

Heidi Tollefsrud is the Vice President – Customer Experience Director for Deerwood Bank. A graduate of the University of Minnesota Duluth, Tollefsrud manages Deerwood Bank’s entire retail banking department while also working to streamline and integrate the customer service experience across all delivery channels.

In her free time, Tollefsrud enjoys spending time with her friends and family while they explore new places in nature. On a warm summer day, you might be able to find Heidi riding her motorcycle on a nice tour around a local lake.


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