Hacked Account

Question

My E mail account has been hacked. Rogue mails sent to my address book. i have changed my password and can get into my account. Is there anything else i can do as added security to prevent it happening again.

Answer 1

Hello KATE DI VITO

Thank you for reaching out to Microsoft Q&A Forum. From what you shared, your email was used to send unwanted messages to your contacts, and I'm glad to hear that you’ve already regained access by changing the password.

Have you’ve tried the steps mentioned in the Q&A Assist reply above? If yes, did you face any difficulties with those steps?

In the meantime, please try the following steps:

1. Secure your account first

• Go to: https://account.microsoft.com/security > Manage how I sign in 
• Remove any unfamiliar sign‑in methods you don’t recognize 
• Check the list of devices associated with your account 
• Turn on Two-step verification: How to use two-step verification with your Microsoft account - Microsoft Support and Sign out everywhere
• If locked out, go to https://account.live.com/password/reset and follow the prompts. 

Review and secure recent sign‑in:

• Check Recent activity: https://account.microsoft.com/activity  
• Choose This wasn’t me/ Secure your account for anything you don’t recognize. You can see What happens if there's an unusual sign-in to your account - Microsoft Support

2. Double-check Inbox rules

In Outlook on the web, go to:

• Settings > Mail > Rules/ Sweep: delete any suspicious rules you did not create
• Settings > Mail > Forwarding: make sure nothing is forwarding

You can also see this official Microsoft guide: How to help keep your Microsoft account secure - Microsoft Support

I truly hope this helps you.

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Answer 2

To enhance the security of your email account after it has been hacked, consider implementing the following measures:

1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification (like a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password.
2. Review Account Activity: Check your account for any unauthorized changes or suspicious activity. Look for unfamiliar devices or locations that have accessed your account.
3. Update Recovery Options: Ensure that your recovery email and phone number are up-to-date. This will help you regain access if you are locked out again.
4. Change Security Questions: If your email provider allows it, update your security questions to something only you would know.
5. Regularly Update Your Password: Use a strong, unique password that combines letters, numbers, and symbols. Change it regularly and avoid reusing passwords across different accounts.
6. Monitor for Phishing Attempts: Be cautious of emails that ask for personal information or direct you to websites asking for your credentials. Always verify the sender's address and look for signs of phishing.
7. Run Security Software: Use antivirus software to scan your devices for malware that could compromise your security.
8. Inform Your Contacts: Let your contacts know that your account was compromised, so they can be wary of any suspicious emails that may have been sent from your account.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of your account being hacked again.

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References:

• Hacked account - Microsoft Q&A
• My personal hotmail account hacked by hacker with authentication app enabled. - Microsoft Q&A