Hackers are increasingly targeting individuals with the intention of accessing their bank accounts, stealing cryptocurrencies, or engaging in stalking activities. While such attacks remain relatively rare, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of protective measures should they suspect unauthorized access to their email, social media accounts, chat apps, or other major services and platforms.
A few years ago, a guide was published to assist individuals in safeguarding their accounts and understanding the security tools offered by most companies with which they hold accounts. In some instances, contacting the companies for help may still be necessary.
The guide outlines steps individuals can take across various online services, including Gmail, Facebook, Apple ID, and others. It is a regularly updated resource to ensure the instructions for each service or platform are current, and new services are added as needed. However, it is important to note that these methods do not guarantee complete protection against being compromised.
If uncertainties persist, especially for journalists, dissidents, activists, or anyone at higher risk of being targeted (such as those in abusive relationships), it is advisable to seek professional help. Organizations like Access Now offer a digital security helpline to connect individuals with experts.
Another recommended step is enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all accounts, particularly for essential ones such as email, banking, and social media. A directory of websites offering MFA provides guidance on enabling this feature across over 1,000 sites, though users are not required to use the specific app promoted by the site, as various alternatives exist.
Some online services now offer the use of physical security keys or passkeys stored in password managers, which provide robust protection against account intrusions from password-stealing malware or phishing attempts.
For Gmail security, if there is a suspicion of unauthorized access, users should check the “Last account activity” details to review all current logins. Any unfamiliar activity warrants a password change. Google provides resources to manage devices with account access and suggests using Google’s Advanced Protection for enhanced security.
Securing a Microsoft Outlook account involves checking recent login activity for abnormalities and using Microsoft’s resources to improve account security and recover compromised accounts.
LinkedIn offers users the ability to monitor sessions and log out of unrecognized devices through its website and mobile apps. LinkedIn also requests confirmation for suspicious login attempts.
Yahoo provides tools to check for unusual activity in its accounts, similar to other providers, focusing on recent account activity and security measures.
Apple users can check device logins through iPhone, iPad, and Mac settings, as well as on Windows and via the web.
Facebook and Instagram offer features to monitor active sessions and enhance security with advanced protection features, recommended for those at risk of unauthorized access.
WhatsApp users can now log in on multiple devices, including computers, and easily monitor and manage linked devices for security.
Signal, like WhatsApp, allows account monitoring via linked devices and offers desktop apps for various operating systems.
X (formerly Twitter) provides account settings to view open sessions, app connections, and the ability to log out of other sessions.
Snap lets users monitor where accounts are logged in and offers security alerts for suspicious logins.
Discord users can manage device access, check authorized apps, and review connected accounts, ensuring a secure online presence.
Telegram users have the option to review active sessions and set automatic logout to manage account security effectively.
This information aims to help individuals understand and manage their online security across multiple popular platforms. Original information published on July 14, 2024, has been updated to include Discord and Telegram.