How do you recover after a cyber attack?
If you think your computer or device has been hacked, the earlier you respond the better, here are some steps you can take:
- Change your passwords : This includes not only changing passwords on your computers and mobile devices, but also all your online accounts. Be sure not to use the hacked computer to change the passwords. Instead, use a different computer or device that you know is safe to change passwords.
- Antivirus : if your antivirus software informs you of an infected file, you can follow the recommended actions. In general, this may include quarantining the file, cleaning it, or deleting it. Most antivirus software will have links that you can follow to get more information about the specific infection. If in doubt, quarantine the file. If that is not possible, then delete it.
- ReconstructionIf you can not repair the infection or you want to be absolutely sure that your system is fixed, a more secure option is to rebuild it. For computers, follow the instructions of the manufacturer of your system. In most cases, this will mean using the built-in utilities to reinstall the operating system. If these utilities are missing, damaged or infected, contact your manufacturer for guidance or visit their website. Do not reinstall the operating system from backup copies; they may have the same vulnerabilities that allowed the hacker to gain access originally. Backup copies should only be used to recover your data. For mobile devices, follow the instructions of the manufacturer of your device or service provider, these should be on your website. In many cases, This can be as simple as restoring your mobile device to the factory default settings. If you do not feel comfortable with the reconstruction process, consider using a professional service to help you. Or, if your computer or device is old, it may be easier and even cheaper to buy a new one. Finally, once you have rebuilt your computer or device (or purchased a new one), make sure it is completely updated and updated and enable automatic updating whenever possible. It can be easier and even cheaper to buy a new one. Finally, once you have rebuilt your computer or device (or purchased a new one), make sure it is completely updated and updated and enable automatic updating whenever possible. It can be easier and even cheaper to buy a new one. Finally, once you have rebuilt your computer or device (or purchased a new one), make sure it is completely updated and updated and enable automatic updating whenever possible.
Backup copies: The most important step you can take to protect yourself is to prepare in advance with regular backups. The more often you back off, the better. Some solutions will automatically backup the new or modified files every hour. Regardless of the backup solution you use, periodically check that you can restore those files. Very often, recovering your data from the backup is the only way you can recover from being hacked. - Law Enforcement : If you feel threatened in any way, report the incident to the local police.