Your Google account holds a treasure trove of personal information, from emails and documents to photos and payment details. That’s why securing it is crucial. But how can you tell if your Google account has been hacked? Here are four key signs and steps you can take to regain control and protect your data.
1. Unfamiliar Activity on Your Account
One of the most obvious signs of a hacked Google account is activity you don’t recognize. This could include:
Emails sent that you didn’t write.
Unusual changes to your Google Drive files.
New devices or locations in your account activity log.
What to Do:
Check your Google Account Activity: Go to https://myaccount.google.com/security and review “Recent security activity” and “Your devices.” Remove any unfamiliar devices.
Change your password immediately to a strong, unique one.
2. You’re Locked Out of Your Account
If you suddenly can’t access your account, it’s possible a hacker has changed your password.
What to Do:
Use the Account Recovery Tool: Visit https://accounts.google.com/signin/recovery to recover your account.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) once you regain access.
3. Unusual Security Alerts from Google
Google sends security alerts when it detects suspicious activity, such as:
Login attempts from unknown devices or locations.
Changes to account recovery information (e.g., phone number or backup email).
What to Do:
Don’t ignore these alerts. Verify them immediately.
Use the Google Security Checkup Tool: This tool will guide you through securing your account step-by-step.
4. Missing Emails or Altered Settings
Hackers often delete emails to cover their tracks or set up email forwarding to steal sensitive information.
What to Do:
Check for Forwarding Rules: Go to Gmail settings > “Forwarding and POP/IMAP” to ensure no unauthorized forwarding addresses are set up.
Review Filters: Hackers may create filters to hide or delete emails. Delete any suspicious filters.
How to Protect Your Google Account from Future Hacks
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Use a trusted device or an authentication app like Google Authenticator for added security.
Regularly Update Your Password: Ensure it’s strong, unique, and not reused across multiple sites.
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly check your account’s activity and devices.
Be Wary of Phishing Attempts: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing your credentials on unverified sites.
Final Thoughts
Your Google account is the gateway to many aspects of your digital life. Recognizing the signs of a hacked account and taking immediate action can help mitigate damage and secure your information. Stay proactive by enabling robust security measures to keep your account safe from future threats.