Your phone got hacked and now someone’s got control of it. What to do immediately

Personal devices like smartphones have become prime targets for hackers due to the wealth of personal information they contain. From emails and text messages to banking apps and social media, our phones are treasure troves for cybercriminals. The growing threat is evident in the increasing number of data breaches reported each year, with nearly 56,000 reports of personal data breaches received by the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center in the last year.

If you find that your phone has been hacked, it can be a daunting and unsettling experience. Signs of a hacked phone can include faster battery drain, strange pop-ups, unfamiliar apps, sluggishness, overheating, or unexpected calls and texts. The key is to act swiftly and decisively to regain control and prevent further damage.

The first step in responding to a hacked phone is to remove any malicious software that may have been installed. This can be done by using strong antivirus software to scan for and remove any hidden threats like spyware, ransomware, or keyloggers. If the antivirus software is unable to fully restore your device’s functionality, a factory reset may be necessary. Seek professional help if needed, and consider replacing the device as a last resort if malware persists.

After addressing the malware, it’s important not to reset passwords prematurely. Hackers may still have access to your device and intercept new credentials. Instead, clean and secure your device thoroughly before resetting passwords, prioritizing critical accounts like email and financial services. Create strong, unique passwords and consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.

In light of the increasing frequency of data breaches, adopting passkeys for login authentication can significantly enhance security. Passkeys, which utilize biometric authentication or a PIN, offer enhanced security, convenience, and cross-device functionality. Setting up passkeys on iPhone and Android devices is a straightforward process that can help safeguard your personal information from unauthorized access.

In conclusion, the threat of data breaches targeting personal devices like smartphones is real and growing. It’s crucial to be prepared and proactive in responding to a hacked phone, taking steps to remove malware, secure accounts, and implement additional security measures like passkeys. By staying vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself and your personal information from cybercriminals.