Hacking advice

Once you’ve checked your software is up to date, manually choose to run a thorough scan of your entire computer system.

When you’re sure there’s no malware on your computer, you can change your passwords. Remember that each new password should be significantly different from the previous one. Don’t forget to change your passwords with other payment-based accounts such as Amazon and credit card companies, too.

It’s a good idea to let friends, family and others in your contacts list know you’ve been hacked so they can check whether they have been targeted too.

If it’s possible that hackers have accessed your account by answering your security questions, you’ll want to change those too. And remember that 2-step authentication offers an additional layer of security.

Even if you’re not locked out of your email account as a result of the hack, it’s wise to report it to your provider. It is also a good idea to report any cases of hacking or phishing to the police, and either the Group of Telematic Crimes of the Civil Guard or the Technological Investigation Brigade of the National Police.

Been hacked before? Maybe it’s time to change provider – and make sure you benefit from default encryption of your emails and solid customer service if the worst happens.

If you suspect that your financial information has been stolen, call your bank straight away and ask to speak to their Fraud department. They will take you through all the steps needed to secure your account. This will usually include cancelling all of your cards and issuing new ones.

Hackers may use your personal details to open credit accounts, so you might want to get in touch with credit reporting agencies to monitor your accounts in the months afterwards.

Finally, run an antivirus scan on all connected devices. Take steps to secure any accounts you have in the Cloud as well as these may also contain your personal data.