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Indianapolis – July 21 – Hackers are accessing sensitive information in people’s email accounts using misleading text messages, and sometimes hijacking the account for spam emails
In one scenario, a hacker obtains an individual’s mobile number and e-mail address though various spy apps or misleading messages. The unsuspecting individual receives a text message purportedly from their email service provider indicating that there is an issue with their email account.
The hacker goes into the login screen of the victim’s e-mail account and clicks “Forgot Password” and requests a verification code to be sent via text. The hacker, pretending to be the service provider, then sends a text to the individual indicating there is an issue with their e-mail account and requests the verification code.
If the recipient responds with the code, the hacker now has full access to any sensitive information in the account, and can change the password locking the individual out.
If you suspect your e-mail account has been hacked:
First make sure your security software is installed and set it to update automatically.
Run a scan to check your computer for malware and restart your computer.
If you are able to access your e-mail account, change your password immediately. Create a strong password that would make it more difficult for someone to obtain.
If you still continue to have difficulty, contact you e-mail provider.
The Federal Communications Commission has information regarding unwanted e-mails and text messages. To obtain more information, visit FCC’s website here.
To find a business you can trust, Look for The Seal. Visit www. BBB.org/Indy/ for business reviews.
About BBB® Serving Central Indiana
For more than 100 years, Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2014, people turned to BBB more than 165 million times for BBB Business Reviews on more than 4.7 million businesses and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at bbb.org. The Council of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for 113 local, independent BBBs in the United States, Canada and Mexico, as well as home to its national programs on dispute resolution, advertising review, and industry self-regulation. BBB Serving Central Indiana was founded in 1916 and serves 46 counties in Indiana.
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