Is your friend’s phone number compromised? Here’s what to look for

Phone hacking is a serious issue that many people underestimate, but recent experiences like Dennis’s serve as a wake-up call for all of us. Just the other day, Dennis received a suspicious text message from a friend’s number that seemed out of character and raised concerns about potential hacking. This incident highlights the importance of staying alert and informed about cyber threats in order to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

There are several signs that can indicate a compromised phone number, such as receiving unusual messages, unknown contacts, unexpected phone behavior, high data usage, unfamiliar apps, battery drain, slow performance, pop-ups and ads, unauthorized charges, and spam sent from the hacked number. If you suspect that a friend’s phone number has been hacked, it is important to take immediate action to protect their personal information and prevent further unauthorized access.

First, verify with your friend if they sent the suspicious message. Next, advise them to use strong antivirus software to scan for malware on their device and change passwords for all accounts linked to their phone number. They should also contact their mobile service provider to report the issue, enable two-factor authentication on their accounts, and monitor their bank statements and credit reports for any suspicious activity.

By recognizing the signs of potential hacking and taking proactive steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones, we can better safeguard our personal information from cyber threats. If you have ever experienced a suspicious message or hacking incident, share your story and how you handled it with us at Cyberguy.com/Contact. Stay informed with tech tips and security alerts by subscribing to the free CyberGuy Report Newsletter at Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Remember, phone hacking is a serious issue that requires vigilance and proactive measures to ensure our digital safety. Let’s all stay informed and take steps to protect ourselves from cyber threats.